Summary

The Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr., a prominent figure in the American civil rights movement, died Tuesday at the age of 84. Tributes from across the country honored his decades of advocacy and leadership.

Key Facts

• Jackson died Tuesday at age 84
• He worked alongside Martin Luther King Jr. in the civil rights movement
• He ran for president in 1984 and 1988

Context

Jackson spent more than five decades as a civil rights activist, beginning his work alongside Martin Luther King Jr. in the 1960s. He founded the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and twice sought the Democratic presidential nomination, in 1984 and 1988, becoming one of the most successful Black candidates for president at that time.

His death prompted statements from political figures across the spectrum, with many describing him as a servant leader who dedicated his life to expanding voting rights and economic opportunity for marginalized communities.

Sources

• Montrosepress