Jesse Jackson
Jesse Jackson Sr. died at age 84
Jesse Jackson Sr. / Chicago, United States / Rainbow PUSH Coalition /

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Last Updated
2/21/2026
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The Breakdown 100

  • Jesse Jackson Sr., a towering figure in the civil rights movement and a two-time Democratic presidential candidate, passed away at 84, leaving behind a legacy of relentless advocacy for racial equality and social justice.
  • Closely associated with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Jackson championed the causes of marginalized communities and founded the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, which focused on civil rights, economic equity, and political engagement.
  • His passionate speeches inspired countless activists and echoed in the hearts of many, notably leading children in a rousing chant of his iconic "I Am Somebody" on Sesame Street.
  • Tributes from world leaders and civil rights activists flowed in after his passing, reflecting on his profound influence on American politics and advocacy for the voiceless.
  • Jackson’s family remembered him as a devoted father and an indomitable force for change, revealing the personal side of a man dedicated to both his loved ones and the wider community.
  • Despite battling serious health issues in his later years, Jackson's spirit of activism and dedication to social justice remained steadfast, making his death a significant loss for the nation and the ongoing fight for equality.

Top Keywords

Jesse Jackson Sr. / Martin Luther King Jr. / Santita Jackson / Marc Morial / Obery Hendricks / Chicago, United States / Rainbow PUSH Coalition / National Urban League / Southern Christian Leadership Conference /

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