Martin Luther King Jr. had a significant trip to the Soviet Union in mind, as revealed in a letter that is now available for purchase. The letter, written shortly after surviving an assassination attempt, sheds light on Dr. King’s intentions for the visit.
Key Takeaway
Martin Luther King Jr.’s letter outlining his proposed trip to the Soviet Union, now available for purchase, offers valuable insights into his strategic thinking and considerations during a critical period in history.
MLK’s Soviet Union Plans
In the letter penned in 1958, Dr. King detailed six reasons for his proposed stopover in the USSR. This plan came just two months after he was stabbed at a book signing in Harlem. Among his motivations was a desire to understand the coexistence of religion among Soviet citizens, despite the state’s promotion of atheism. Additionally, he expressed his intention to meet with Baptists in the communist nation to gain insight into how minority groups were impacted by Soviet policies.
One striking aspect of the letter is the estimated cost of the trip, which Dr. King projected to be $35 per day. This amount covered expenses such as accommodations, transportation, interpreters, and other necessities. Adjusted for inflation, this would amount to approximately $370 per day in today’s currency.
Rare Historical Artifact
This rare piece of history, which has been stored by a private collector for years, is now being offered for sale through Moments In Time for $54,000. The letter provides a unique glimpse into a pivotal moment in Dr. King’s life and his considerations regarding international travel and diplomacy.
Decision to Cancel the Trip
Despite his initial plans, Dr. King ultimately decided to cancel the trip a few months later, as he was concerned about the potential political implications of the visit to the Soviet Union.
