A refresh of the history behind MLK Day

(KYMA, KECY) - Monday is a special day that marks a turning point in history.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service is a defining moment each year when Americans across the country step up to make our communities more equitable and take action to create the beloved community of Dr. King’s dream. 

It is observed each year on the third Monday in January. President Ronald Reagan signed the holiday into law in 1983.

King's actual birthday is January 15, 1929.

King was the chief spokesperson in the civil rights movement.

He is most famously known for delivering a 17-minute speech, later known as "I Have a Dream".

MLK was fatally shot by James Earl Ray at 6:01 p.m., Thursday, April 4, 1968, as he stood on a motel's second-floor balcony. 

Although he was just short of 40 years old, he left behind a legacy to Americans.