Portrait of a transformational leader: the legacy of Dr Martin Luther King Jr

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the leadership of Dr Martin Luther King Jr in relation to four characteristics of transformational leadership

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws upon excerpts from archival sources of personal correspondence and statements by Dr Martin Luther King Jr stored at the King Center, Atlanta, Georgia.

Findings

The research finds that Dr King personified the four characteristics of transformational leadership. It also illustrates King's leadership legacy through modern works on leadership.

Originality/value

The analysis presented assists our understanding of the qualities of and the way we think about, transformational leaders. It emphasises the importance of building follower confidence; challenging taken‐for‐granted assumptions; developing follower needs and upholding high moral values.

Citation

McGuire, D. and Hutchings, K. (2007), "Portrait of a transformational leader: the legacy of Dr Martin Luther King Jr", Leadership & Organization Development Journal, Vol. 28 No. 2, pp. 154-166. https://doi.org/10.1108/01437730710726840