Rev Jesse Jackson
The Rev Jesse Jackson, one of the most prominent figures of the American civil rights movement and a two-time US presidential candidate, has died at the age of 84, his family has confirmed. A protégé of Martin Luther King Jr., Jackson rose to national prominence in the 1960s as a passionate advocate for racial equality, economic justice and voting rights. Over the decades, he became a defining voice in American public life, known for his powerful oratory and tireless activism.
In 1971, he founded Operation PUSH (People United to Save Humanity), an organisation aimed at improving economic conditions for Black Americans. He later established the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, broadening his efforts to promote social justice, education and political empowerment.
Jackson made history with his bids for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988, becoming one of the first African Americans to mount a serious campaign for the White House. His 1988 campaign, in particular, mobilised millions of voters and helped reshape the political landscape within the Democratic Party. Throughout his life, Jackson championed nonviolent protest, coalition-building and international diplomacy. He was frequently called upon to mediate in times of crisis and remained active in public life even while facing significant health challenges in his later years.
Tributes have poured in from political leaders, activists and citizens across the United States and beyond, many describing him as a trailblazer who expanded opportunities for future generations. Rev Jesse Jackson’s legacy is woven into the fabric of modern American history. For supporters, he embodied perseverance and hope; for critics, he was nonetheless a formidable and consequential presence. He leaves behind a lasting imprint on the struggle for civil rights and equality.
