The civil rights leader influenced by the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi was Martin Luther King Jr.. King embraced Gandhi's principles of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience as effective means to combat racial injustice in the United States. His philosophy shaped the tactics of the American civil rights movement, inspiring peaceful protests and marches. King's commitment to nonviolence while addressing systemic racism continues to resonate today, reflecting the impact of Gandhi's teachings on his life and work.