George Jackson Quotes

A collection of quotes by George Jackson.

George Jackson (1941-1971) was an African-American activist, author, and revolutionary. Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, he was deeply influenced by the rampant racism and inequality prevalent in American society during the civil rights era.

Jackson came to prominence while serving a prison sentence for a petty crime. While incarcerated, he became a voracious reader and developed a strong political consciousness. He joined the Black Panther Party and co-founded the Black Guerrilla Family, a Marxist-Leninist revolutionary organization composed primarily of prisoners.

During his time in prison, Jackson wrote prolifically, outlining the oppressive conditions faced by incarcerated individuals and advocating for their rights. His book, "Soledad Brother: The Prison Letters of George Jackson," gained immense attention and became a bestseller. It captured the attention of activists and intellectuals around the world, drawing attention to the plight of prisoners and the broader struggle against racial injustice.

Jackson's outspoken activism and intellectual pursuits made him a target of the prison authorities. On August 21, 1971, he was killed by prison guards during an alleged escape attempt in San Quentin State Prison. His death sparked protests and ignited a greater public debate surrounding prison reform and the treatment of incarcerated individuals.

George Jackson's powerful writings and his unwavering fight against institutionalized racism continue to inspire generations of activists and scholars alike. His legacy endures as a symbol of resistance and the ongoing struggle for justice.