Significant TLS, one page, 8.5 x 11, Southern Christian Leadership Conference letterhead, March 25, 1964. King writes to Jonathan Helfat in Douglaston, New York. In part: “Please accept my deep appreciation for your kind letter in reference to my being chosen by TIME magazine as its Man of the Year.... I was pleased that TIME considered me for this traditional honor and was willing to make liberal use of its pages in an assessment of the Negro’s constant struggle for full equality and human dignity. However, I must say that I sincerely feel that this particular recognition is not an honor to be enjoyed by me personally, but rather a tribute to the entire civil rights struggle and the millions of gallant people all over the nation who are working so untiringly to bring the American dream into reality. The fact that time took such cognizance of the social revolution in which we are engaged is an indication that the conscience of America has been reached and that the old order which has embraced bigotry and discrimination must now yield to what we know to be right and just.” In the year he penned this letter, King enjoyed some of the greatest triumphs of his public career. On July 2, King was present at the White House for signing the Civil Rights Act of 1964, one of the most important acts of legislation in the history of American civil rights; on December 8, he became the youngest person ever awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. In fine condition, with usual mailing folds (away from signature), a very subtle suggestion of toning, and a touch of minor handling wear. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
