Alberta Williams King: A Life of Commitment and Tragedy

Alberta Christine Williams King, a prominent figure in American civil rights history, was born on September 13, 1904[3]. Her life was marked by deep personal commitment, family ties, and an untimely tragic end. This article delves into the key aspects of Alberta King’s life, from her birth to her tragic assassination, shedding light on her significant contributions to the civil rights movement and her enduring legacy.

Birth and Family

Alberta Christine Williams King was born on September 13, 1904, in Atlanta, Georgia. Her parents were Reverend Adam Daniel Williams and Jennie Celeste (Parks) Williams[3]. Growing up in a family deeply involved in the religious community, Alberta developed a strong sense of faith and values that would shape her life and actions.

Marriage and Children

Alberta King’s commitment to the civil rights cause was intertwined with her personal life. She was married to Martin Luther King Sr., a prominent Baptist minister, for 58 years. Together, they raised three children: Willie Christine King, Martin Luther King Jr., and Alfred Daniel Williams King I[3]. The close-knit family shared a common dedication to justice and equality, which became the foundation of their collective endeavors.

Church Involvement

Alberta King played a crucial role in the activities of the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia. Her deep faith and passion for social justice led her to actively participate in church affairs, contributing to the growth and impact of the congregation. The Ebenezer Baptist Church, now part of the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, served as a platform for her community engagement and spiritual expression.

Tragic Assassination

Despite her unwavering commitment to the civil rights movement, Alberta King met a tragic end. On June 30, 1974, she was shot and killed in the Ebenezer Baptist Church, the same place where her son, Martin Luther King Jr., had preached his powerful messages of equality and justice[3]. Her assassination occurred six years after the untimely death of her son, adding another layer of sorrow to the King family’s profound loss.

Alberta King’s assassination was a grim reminder of the dangers faced by those who fought for civil rights in a deeply divided and hostile society. Her life and legacy continue to inspire generations, serving as a testament to the resilience and unwavering spirit of those dedicated to the pursuit of justice and equality.

Sources

  1. Google Search: https://www.google.com/search?num=12&sca_esv=601059271&q=Atlanta&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAONgVuLQz9U3MDSuLHzEaMwt8PLHPWEprUlrTl5jVOHiCs7IL3fNK8ksqRQS42KDsnikuLjgmngWsbI7luQk5pUkAgDBxaAVTAAAAA&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjg2M-O-vWDAxVDlYkEHc3fBPgQzIcDKAB6BAgnEAE
  2. Alberta Williams King – Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alberta_Williams_King
  3. Alberta Williams King – Simple English Wikipedia: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alberta_Williams_King

Note: The information presented in this article is based on the sources cited above.

FAQs

Alberta Williams King: A Life of Commitment and Tragedy

Alberta Christine Williams King, a prominent figure in American civil rights history, was born on September 13, 1904. Her life was marked by deep personal commitment, family ties, and an untimely tragic end. This article delves into the key aspects of Alberta King’s life, from her birth to her tragic assassination, shedding light on her significant contributions to the civil rights movement and her enduring legacy.

Where was Alberta King born?

Alberta Christine Williams King was born in Atlanta, Georgia.

Who were Alberta King’s parents?

Alberta King’s parents were Reverend Adam Daniel Williams and Jennie Celeste (Parks) Williams.

How long was Alberta King married?



Alberta King was married to Martin Luther King Sr. for 58 years.

How many children did Alberta and Martin Luther King Sr. have?

Alberta and Martin Luther King Sr. had three children together: Willie Christine King, Martin Luther King Jr., and Alfred Daniel Williams King I.

What role did Alberta King play in the church?

Alberta King played an important role in the activities of the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia.

How did Alberta King die?

Alberta King was tragically shot and killed in the Ebenezer Baptist Church on June 30, 1974, six years after the assassination of her son Martin Luther King Jr.



Alberta King’s assassination was a grim reminder of the dangers faced by those who fought for civil rights in a deeply divided and hostile society. Her life and legacy continue to inspire generations, serving as a testament to the resilience and unwavering spirit of those dedicated to the pursuit of justice and equality.