Today, Americans across the nation are celebrating Martin Luther King Day by paying tribute to Dr. King's legacy as a champion of civil rights. This morning, Google continued its practice of creating an illustration, known as a "Google Doogle," to celebrate holidays, anniversaries, and the lives of famous artists, pioneers, and scientists. Today's doodle is Google's 9th doodle commemorating MLK Day. The first MLK-themed doodle appeared on Google's homepage in 2003, took a brief absence for two years, and re-emerged in 2006.

In years past, doodles have ranged from illustrations of children and profiles of Dr. King's image. This year's doodle prominently features Dr. King in a blue, yellow and purple, geometric portrait that is akin to stained glass. Below I have included some of my favorite MLK Google Doodles from over the years. Or, you can view the complete archive [here].

2009, by Shepard Fairey / Studio Number One

2010, by Jennifer Hom

2011, by Jennifer Hom

What is your favorite MLK Day Google Doodle from over the years? Let me know in the comments!