Peace,

I think you are entirely right. From what I have read, King himself knew that he was likely to be killed, and made a decision to take that risk. I'm not a King scholar--I'm pulling from what I have read and heard over the years in newpapers, lay literature, interviews with other civil rights leaders who were close to him.

But what he did, in addition to directing the anger of his own people to useful purpose, was manipulate the carelessly wielded anger of his opponents, such that the civil rights movement benefited. He used their own anger against them. Even unto death.

I don't mean to say he chose death. Nor do I mean to say that his death brought more momentum for change than would have resulted had he continued to live and lead. What I am saying is that he did not squander his death.

Gotta go. More later. I'm sure everyone is waiting with bated breath:^)

Janie