Jesse Jackson dies at 84: Civil rights titan who changed American politics forever
Rev. Jesse Jackson hospitalized in Chicago
Rev. Jesse Jackson, a towering figure in the American civil rights movement and Democratic politics for more than five decades, has died at the age of 84. A former close associate of Martin Luther King Jr. and a two-time presidential candidate, Jackson’s life was defined by activism, political ambition, and an unwavering call for racial and economic justice.
His family confirmed his passing, describing him as a “servant leader” whose belief in equality uplifted millions. No official cause of death was immediately disclosed, though Jackson had battled progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) for over a decade and was previously diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
From Segregated South to National Civil Rights Leadership
Born on October 8, 1941, in Greenville, South Carolina, Jackson grew up navigating the realities of segregation. As a high school student, he led a peaceful protest at a whites-only public library, an early sign of the activism that would define his life.
He later transferred to North Carolina A&T State University, where he served as student body president and deepened his involvement in sit-ins and civil rights demonstrations. His leadership skills, he once said, were shaped both by activism and his time as a quarterback on the football field.
Jackson’s early activism caught the attention of Martin Luther King Jr., who recruited him into the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. Jackson played a key role in Operation Breadbasket, an economic justice initiative aimed at expanding employment opportunities for Black Americans.
He was present in Memphis in April 1968 when King was assassinated at the Lorraine Motel, a moment that profoundly shaped his lifelong mission.
Founder of PUSH and Rainbow Coalition
After leaving the SCLC in 1971, Jackson founded People United to Save Humanity (PUSH), focusing on economic empowerment and corporate accountability. In the 1980s, he launched the National Rainbow Coalition, advocating for voting rights, social programs and multiracial political alliances.
The two organizations later merged into the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, which awarded millions in scholarships and assisted thousands of families facing foreclosure.
Jackson consistently framed civil rights as both a racial and economic struggle, pushing corporations and government leaders to address systemic inequality.
Historic Presidential Campaigns
In 1984 and 1988, Jackson sought the Democratic presidential nomination, becoming one of the first Black candidates to mount a viable nationwide campaign.
His 1988 campaign was especially influential. Though he ultimately lost the nomination to Michael Dukakis, Jackson won several primaries and expanded the political coalition of young voters, minorities and working-class Americans.
Years later, when Barack Obama was elected president in 2008, many credited Jackson’s campaigns for laying the groundwork.
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Health Battles and Final Years
In later life, Jackson faced significant health challenges. Initially diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, he later revealed he had progressive supranuclear palsy, a rare neurological disorder. He was also hospitalized twice during the COVID-19 pandemic and remained vocal about racial disparities in healthcare outcomes.
Despite health setbacks, Jackson continued advocating for civil rights, voting access and economic fairness.
Presidential Recognition and National Honors
In 2000, President Bill Clinton awarded Jackson the Presidential Medal of Freedom, recognizing decades of activism.
Throughout his career, Jackson remained a fixture in American political life, spanning the administrations of Ronald Reagan through Donald Trump. He frequently spoke about what he described as the ongoing struggle against white supremacy and inequality.
A Legacy That Reshaped Democratic Politics
Jackson’s influence extended beyond marches and speeches. He redefined the Democratic Party’s coalition-building strategy, championing multiracial alliances and broad-based economic justice long before such frameworks became mainstream.
He often quoted King’s belief that “the moral arc of the universe is long, but it bends toward justice”, while reminding supporters that it requires effort to bend.
His passing marks the end of a pivotal chapter in modern civil rights history.
FAQ
How did Jesse Jackson die?
No official cause of death has been announced. Jackson had been battling progressive supranuclear palsy and previously disclosed a Parkinson’s diagnosis.
How old was Jesse Jackson?
Jesse Jackson was 84 years old at the time of his death.
What was Jesse Jackson known for?
He was a civil rights leader, founder of PUSH and the Rainbow Coalition, and a two-time Democratic presidential candidate who expanded minority political participation.
Was Jesse Jackson close to Martin Luther King Jr.?
Yes. Jackson worked closely with King through the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and was present in Memphis the day King was assassinated.
Did Jesse Jackson ever run for president?
Yes. He ran for the Democratic nomination in 1984 and 1988, performing strongly in 1988 but not securing the nomination.
What is the Rainbow PUSH Coalition?
It is a civil rights organization formed by merging Jackson’s earlier groups, focusing on educational access, economic justice and voter rights.
Did Jesse Jackson receive national honors?
Yes. In 2000, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Bill Clinton.
What impact did Jesse Jackson have on modern politics?
Jackson helped build multiracial coalitions within the Democratic Party and paved the way for future Black presidential candidates.