The famous historical figure known for his civil rights activism in the United States is Martin Luther King Jr. A prominent leader in the American civil rights movement during the 1950s and 1960s, King advocated for nonviolent protest to combat racial discrimination and inequality. His work culminated in significant events, such as the March on Washington in 1963, where he delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech. King's advocacy for social justice and equality earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964, and he remains a lasting symbol of the fight for civil and human rights.