Final answer:
Martin Luther King Jr. became a leader through his involvement in the Civil Rights Movement and his commitment to nonviolent protest.
Step-by-step explanation:
Martin Luther King Jr. became a leader through his involvement in the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. He gained respect and recognition for his charismatic leadership and commitment to nonviolent protest. King was instrumental in organizing and leading protests, marches, and demonstrations to advocate for equal rights and end racial segregation and discrimination.