This is Jesse Jackson. He died on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. He was an important African American leader. Let’s look at his life.
Jesse Jackson was born in 1941. He grew up in Greenville, South Carolina. He was very poor. He attended college on a football scholarship. In college, Jackson became involved in the Civil Rights Movement. He also attended a school and became a minister.
In 1965, Jackson joined Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s, organization. He became a leader. He planned protests in Chicago. In 1968, Dr. King was killed. Jackson continued to work for civil rights.
In 1984, Jackson ran for president. He ran again in 1988. He did well. He did not win. Jackson gave powerful speeches. He told people to “keep hope alive.”
Reverend Jackson died peacefully in his home. He was surrounded by friends and family. He was 84 years old.
What Do You Think? What causes are important to you? How would you like to be remembered?
Photo Credit: A1C Robinson/National Archive Catalog
