Civil Rights Leader Jesse Jackson Dies at 84

Jackson was a prominent figure in the fight for racial equality and ran for US president twice.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Charismatic U.S. civil rights leader Jesse Jackson, an eloquent Baptist minister who played a key role in the American civil rights movement and twice ran for U.S. president, has died at the age of 84.

Why it matters

Jesse Jackson was a towering figure in the fight for racial equality in the United States. As a close associate of Martin Luther King Jr., he continued King's work after his assassination and became a prominent voice for civil rights, social justice, and economic empowerment for African Americans.

The details

Jackson was a Baptist minister and civil rights activist who was deeply involved in the American civil rights movement. He played a key role in the 1960s, working alongside Martin Luther King Jr. and participating in many of the major civil rights protests and marches of the era. Jackson later ran for the Democratic nomination for president in 1984 and 1988, becoming the first African American to mount a serious campaign for the presidency.

  • Jesse Jackson died on February 17, 2026.

The players

Jesse Jackson

A charismatic U.S. civil rights leader, Baptist minister, and two-time presidential candidate who was a prominent figure in the American civil rights movement.

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What they’re saying

“Jesse Jackson was a tireless advocate for racial justice and economic empowerment. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”

— Barack Obama, Former U.S. President

“Jesse Jackson's voice was a clarion call for the voiceless. He fought for the poor, the marginalized, and the oppressed with unwavering conviction.”

— Reverend Al Sharpton, Civil Rights Activist

What’s next

Jackson's funeral and memorial services are expected to draw large crowds of civil rights leaders, politicians, and activists from across the country to honor his life and legacy.

The takeaway

Jesse Jackson's passing marks the end of an era for the civil rights movement. His lifelong dedication to fighting for racial equality and social justice made him a towering figure whose impact will be felt for generations to come.