Martin Luther King Jr. might have been a giant in the Civil Rights Movement, but at home, the doting father of four was simply dad. As we observe what would have been his 96th birthday, look back at some of his family photos with his children Yolanda,

Martin Luther King Jr., a reverend and civil-rights activist, was assassinated at 39. However, he inspired several movements and political changes.

Here’s what to know about Martin Luther King Jr., why we celebrate his impact each year and when MLK Day is in 2025.