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Read the excerpt from Dr. Martin Luther King's "Letter from Birmingham Jail":

"Frankly, I have yet to engage in a direct action campaign that was 'well timed' in the view of those who have not suffered unduly from the disease of segregation."

What is the author's purpose for including this sentence?

A. To establish the suffering experienced under segregation
B. To define the concept of a direct action campaign
C. To criticize the public officials who endorse segregation
D. To explain his unwillingness to postpone his efforts

Answer :

Final answer:

In his letter, King's statement emphasizes the necessity for immediate civil rights action against systemic racism, criticizing those who can afford to wait for change. This reflects the urgency experienced by those suffering under segregation. King's words highlight the divide between the urgency of oppressed individuals and the complacency of those unaffected by injustice.


Explanation:

Understanding King's Purpose in His Letter

In Dr. Martin Luther King's "Letter from Birmingham Jail," the sentence "Frankly, I have yet to engage in a direct action campaign that was 'well timed' in the view of those who have not suffered unduly from the disease of segregation" serves a specific function. The primary purpose of this statement is to explain his unwillingness to postpone his efforts for civil rights. By indicating that those who have not experienced the harsh realities of segregation often believe it is appropriate to wait for a better time, King critiques the attitude of complacency among the privileged who suggest waiting for justice. This sentiment highlights a fundamental divide in perspective between those advocating for immediate action and those who can afford to wait for change.

Context and Analysis

King's use of this sentence is deeply rooted in the ongoing struggle against racial injustice, which was real and urgent for African Americans. He argues that the call for patience has often translated to a denial of rights and perpetuation of suffering. By engaging in direct action, he hopes to create a scenario that forces everyone—especially those in power—to acknowledge the injustice and engage in dialogue, making negotiation inevitable. Hence, his mention underscores the critical need for urgent action against systemic racism rather than a passive acceptance of delays.


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