Challenges in the Life of Jesse Jackson in a Detailed Timeline

Life is full of challenges, and Jesse Jackson faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

Jesse Louis Jackson is a prominent American civil rights activist, politician, and Baptist minister. He rose to prominence as a protégé of Martin Luther King Jr. during the Civil Rights Movement and has remained a leading figure in civil rights advocacy for decades. He served as a shadow delegate and senator for the District of Columbia from 1991 to 1997. Jackson is also the father of former U.S. Representative Jesse Jackson Jr. and current U.S. Representative Jonathan Jackson.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

July 16, 1960: Greenville Public Library Sit-in

On July 16, 1960, Jesse Jackson participated in a sit-in at the Greenville Public Library and was arrested for "disorderly conduct".

1960: University of Illinois

In 1960, sociologist Harry Edwards suggested that Jackson had left the University of Illinois because he had been placed on academic probation

1984: Jackson Criticized for Anti-Semitic Remarks

In 1984, Jesse Jackson faced criticism for using anti-Semitic slurs, which strained his relationship with the Jewish community.

1984: Presidential Campaign

In 1984, Jesse Jackson launched a presidential campaign. He finished in third place for the Democratic nomination.

1984: Jackson uses pejorative term for Jews

In 1984, Jesse Jackson was criticized for referring to Jews as "Hymies" and New York City as "Hymietown" in remarks to a Washington Post reporter, mistakenly believing they wouldn't be printed. Louis Farrakhan further complicated the situation by warning that any harm to Jackson would be the last.

November 1987: Media and Analysts' Assessment of Jackson's Candidacy

In November 1987, a New York Times article highlighted that most political analysts gave Jesse Jackson little chance of being nominated in the presidential race, citing factors such as his race and his liberal political stance.

1988: Meeting with Dukakis and Democratic National Convention

In 1988, Jesse Jackson met with Michael Dukakis after the Democratic primaries to discuss Jackson's platform, including universal voter registration and delegate allocation rules. Jackson sought consideration as Dukakis's running mate. Tensions arose, requiring Jimmy Carter to mediate before the 1988 Democratic National Convention. Following Dukakis's nomination, Jackson appeared with Dukakis and Lloyd Bentsen, and by September, Jackson's former campaign members disputed with the Dukakis campaign.

1988: Jackson's Performance and Credibility in the 1988 Presidential Campaign

In 1988, Jesse Jackson's presidential campaign gained credibility, exceeding expectations and improving upon his 1984 results. Despite facing challenges, including allegations against his half-brother, Jackson's broader appeal among white voters solidified his position as a prominent candidate.

November 18, 1999: Decatur, Illinois, High School Expulsions

On November 18, 1999, after seven high school students in Decatur, Illinois were expelled for two years following a brawl at a football game, Jesse Jackson protested the expulsions arguing that they were unfair and racially biased.