• Biography

Jesse Jackson is an American civil rights activist, Baptist minister, and politician. He is best known for his work in the civil rights movement, and for his two presidential campaigns in the 1980s and 1990s. Jackson was born in Greenville, South Carolina, on October 8, 1941. He was the son of Helen Burns, a 16-year-old single mother. Jackson was raised by his mother and her family, and attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he earned a degree in sociology.

Early Activism

Jackson began his activism in the civil rights movement in the early 1960s. He was a leader in the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr. He was also involved in the Selma to Montgomery marches and the March on Washington. In 1965, Jackson founded Operation Breadbasket, an organization that worked to improve economic opportunities for African Americans.

In 1971, Jackson founded the Rainbow Coalition, a multi-ethnic organization that worked to promote civil rights and social justice. He also served as a shadow senator for the District of Columbia from 1991 to 1997.

Presidential Campaigns

In 1984, Jackson ran for the Democratic presidential nomination. He won several primaries and caucuses, and was the first African American to mount a serious campaign for the presidency. He ultimately lost the nomination to Walter Mondale.

In 1988, Jackson again ran for the Democratic presidential nomination. He won several primaries and caucuses, and was the first African American to win a majority of the popular vote in a presidential primary. He ultimately lost the nomination to Michael Dukakis.

Later Work

In the 1990s, Jackson continued to work for civil rights and social justice. He founded the National Rainbow Coalition, a civil rights organization, and the Wall Street Project, an economic empowerment organization. He also served as a special envoy to Africa for President Bill Clinton.

In 2000, Jackson founded the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, a civil rights organization that works to promote economic justice and social change. He continues to serve as its president.

Conclusion

Jesse Jackson is an American civil rights activist, Baptist minister, and politician. He is best known for his work in the civil rights movement, and for his two presidential campaigns in the 1980s and 1990s. Jackson has dedicated his life to fighting for civil rights and social justice, and continues to do so through his work with the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition.

Date modified: Apr 8, 2023
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