Article Assignment
“Letter from Birmingham Jail”
Read the letter (article) carefully and respond to the following questions:
1. Paragraphs #1, #2, and #3. Dr. King explains why he is in Birmingham. He goes on to state that he does not consider himself to be an “outside agitator.” How does he counter the “outside agitator” viewpoint held by the Birmingham clergy?
2. The Birmingham clergy claimed that the demonstrations in the city were “unwise and untimely.” In Paragraphs #5 and #6, Dr. King responded to this claim. What did he say to the clergy? What did you think of his response?
3. In paragraphs #7 and #8, Dr. King discusses the difference between “just” and “unjust” laws. What is his view?
4. Paragraph #9. Why is Dr. King “disappointed with the white moderate?”
5. Paragraphs #10 and #11. What are the two opposing forces that Dr. King stands in the middle of in the Negro community? Explain his point.
6. Paragraphs #12 and #13. Why do you think Dr. King was “disappointed in the white church”?
7. Paragraph #14. How did Dr. King respond to the clergymen’s belief that the Birmingham police department maintained “order” and “prevented violence”?
8. Last paragraph. Who, according to Dr. King, are the real “heroes” in the American South and why?
9. Detail your impression of this Birmingham letter by Dr. King. Did it have any lasting affect on you after reading it?
