Rev. Jesse Jackson, the towering civil rights activist and religious leader who worked to improve economic conditions for Black communities and advocated for social justice causes around the world, died on Tuesday. He was 84.
A Legacy of Activism
Jackson’s family confirmed his death, stating he “died peacefully” while surrounded by loved ones. They described him as a “servant leader” dedicated to the oppressed, the voiceless and the overlooked, and asked that his memory be honored by continuing the fight for justice, equality, and love.
Jackson was hospitalized in Chicago in November 2025 for progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a neurological disorder affecting body movements and balance. He was initially diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2013, and his PSP diagnosis was confirmed in April 2025.
From Civil Rights to Presidential Campaigns
For over 50 years, Jackson was a prominent activist in the United States. He founded Operation PUSH (People United to Serve Humanity) and the National Rainbow Coalition, which later consolidated into the Rainbow PUSH Coalition.
Driven by opposition to Ronald Reagan, Jackson launched presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988. While unsuccessful, he registered millions of new voters and exceeded expectations, finishing third in 1984 (behind Gary Hart and Walter Mondale) and second in 1988 (behind Michael Dukakis). He briefly led Dukakis in delegates after a win in the Michigan caucus in 1988.
As the most prominent Black candidate for president at the time, Jackson is credited with helping to set the stage for the election of Barack Obama 20 years later. Reforms he advocated for in 1988, changing how delegates were distributed in the Democratic primary, also contributed to Obama’s eventual victory. His campaigns also influenced future outsider candidates like Bernie Sanders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Jesse Jackson do?
Jesse Jackson was a towering civil rights activist and religious leader who worked to improve economic conditions for Black communities and advocated for social justice causes around the world for over 50 years.
When did Jesse Jackson run for president?
Jesse Jackson launched presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988, finishing third in 1984 and second in 1988.
What health challenges did Jesse Jackson face?
Jackson was originally diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2013 and later diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) in April 2025, after being hospitalized in November 2025.
How will Jesse Jackson’s legacy continue to shape the fight for social justice and political representation in the years to reach?
