On April 4, 1968, Robert F. Kennedy announced the death of Martin Luther King, Jr. to a majority-black crowd in an Indianapolis park. His impromptu speech is regarded as one of the most powerful and important addresses in American history. Kennedy's speech - equal parts eulogy and call for peace - came as America was erupting into violence. Because of his message of compassion, the crowd in Indianapolis returned home peacefully. As cities across America burned, Indianapolis remained peaceful.