Signed book: Stride Toward Freedom. First edition, later printing. NY: Harper and Brothers, 1958. Hardcover with dustjacket, 5.75 x 8.5, 230 pages. Signed and inscribed on the first free end page, 'To: Honorable Adlai E. Stevenson, In appreciation for your genuine good-will, your great statesmanlike vision, and your broad humanitarian concern. With warm regards, Martin L. King, Jr.' Page also bears a Stevenson ownership stamp at top. In fine condition, with slight running of ink to one word of inscription, and some scattered light wear and creasing to dustjacket. Accompanied by a 1956 TLS signed by Stevenson, written to Paul, which reads, in part: 'I pledge to you every resource of mind and strength that I possess to make your deed a good one for our country and for our party.' Also accompanied by a 2007 TLS from Stevenson III mentioning the book.
Stevenson was a former Illinois governor and two-time Democratic Party presidential candidate who offered early and strong civil rights credentials. As an assistant to Secretary of the Navy Frank Knox, Stevenson encouraged integration of Naval units and at the 1948 Democratic National Convention voted against seating the Mississippi delegation that had excluded blacks from the selection process. Although he softened his Civil Rights approach during his two runs for the White House to attract conservative voters, his overall dedication to the cause caught the attention of Dr. King, who applauded the politician for his 'genuine good-will...great statesmanlike vision, and... broad humanitarian concern.' A remarkable piece from the Civil Right leader inscribed to a Democratic powerbroker! Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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