“Never forget that everything Hitler did in Germany was legal.”
- January 15, 1929 – April 4, 1968
- African American
- Pastor and civil rights leader
- He led the movement to abolish racial discrimination in the United States and contributed to the establishment of the Civil Rights Act
Quote
“Never forget that everything Hitler did in Germany was legal.”
Explanation
In this quote, King warns against the blind acceptance of laws simply because they are sanctioned by authority. He reminds us that legality does not equate to morality, as laws themselves can be deeply unjust. By pointing out that Hitler’s actions were legally sanctioned in Germany, King emphasizes the danger of laws that uphold oppression and cruelty. His words suggest that it is our responsibility to question and, if necessary, oppose laws that violate human rights and moral principles.
King’s message is rooted in his belief in moral justice over legal compliance. During the Civil Rights Movement, many unjust laws enforced racial segregation and discrimination, leading King and others to engage in acts of civil disobedience. He understood that oppressive systems often use legal frameworks to legitimize harm, and that ethical integrity requires standing against such laws. For King, true justice is based on respect for human dignity and equality, not on compliance with unjust legal structures.
Today, King’s insight is a reminder to evaluate laws critically and not to conflate legality with ethical correctness. His words encourage us to stand up against policies and practices that infringe on human rights, even when they are legally sanctioned. King’s quote challenges us to consider the moral implications of our actions and to prioritize justice, compassion, and humanity over unexamined obedience to the law. By upholding ethical values, we contribute to building societies where laws reflect true justice rather than perpetuate injustice.
