Jesse Jackson Biography
Jesse Jackson was a renowned American civil rights leader, politician, and Baptist minister born on October 8, 1941, in Greenville, South Carolina. He grew up under segregation in the Jim Crow South and became active in early protests against racial discrimination as a college student.
During the 1960s civil rights movement, Jackson worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr., joining the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and aiding in voter‑registration and desegregation efforts. He later led Operation Breadbasket to improve job opportunities for Black Americans.
In 1971, Jackson founded Operation PUSH (People United to Save Humanity), which focused on economic justice and community empowerment. He then launched the National Rainbow Coalition in 1984 to unite diverse groups advocating civil rights and political inclusion. The two groups merged into the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, which continued advocating equality, voting rights, and social reform.
Jackson twice ran for the Democratic presidential nomination, in 1984 and 1988, becoming the first African American candidate with widespread support. His campaigns helped raise national awareness of racial and economic justice and inspired future leaders.
Beyond U.S. politics, Jackson engaged in international diplomacy, working to secure the release of hostages and prisoners in several global conflicts during the 1980s and 1990s.
Jackson married Jacqueline Lavinia Brown in 1962, and they raised five children together. He also had a daughter from a later relationship. His sons include Jesse Jackson Jr. and Jonathan Jackson, both of whom served in Congress.
For his lifelong work, Jackson received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Bill Clinton in 2000. He remained a powerful voice for justice, equality, and inclusion until his death on February 17, 2026, at age 84, leaving a profound legacy in American civil rights history.
Jesse Jackson Age at Death | How Old Was Jesse Jackson?
Jesse Jackson died at the age of 84 years old on February 17, 2026. He was born on October 8, 1941, in Greenville, South Carolina. Throughout his 84 years, Jackson dedicated his life to the civil rights movement, political activism, and public service. He worked alongside leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., founded the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, and ran for president, leaving a lasting legacy in American history.
Jesse Jackson Height | How Tall is Jesse Jackson?
Jesse Jackson stood about 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 m) tall, giving him a commanding physical presence in public life and leadership roles. His height complemented his bold speeches and influential civil rights advocacy. Jackson’s stature reflected both his leadership in the civil rights movement and his confidence as an orator among peers and global audiences. Moreover, his tall frame helped him project authority during rallies, marches, and televised appearances.
Why Is Jesse Jackson So Famous?
Jesse Jackson became famous for his leadership in the American civil rights movement and his work with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He also founded Operation PUSH and the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, which fought for racial equality and economic justice. Moreover, Jackson made history by running for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988, inspiring many Americans. His speeches, activism, and commitment to social reform and voting rights cemented his status as a national civil rights icon.
Jesse Jackson Political Party
Jesse Jackson belonged to the Democratic Party throughout his political career. He ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988, gaining national attention. Jackson championed progressive policies focused on civil rights, economic justice, and social reform within the party. Moreover, he helped expand Democratic support among minority voters and grassroots activists. His affiliation with the Democratic Party shaped his influence on national politics.
Jesse Jackson Education
Jesse Jackson attended public schools in Greenville, South Carolina, before leaving home to pursue higher education. Later, he enrolled at Chicago’s American Baptist Theological Seminary, where he earned a Bachelor of Divinity degree. Moreover, Jackson studied theology under Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at Boston University, which shaped his civil rights philosophy. He also received honorary degrees from multiple universities for his leadership and activism. Therefore, Jackson’s education combined religious training and social justice study, fueling his lifelong work for equality and human rights.
Jesse Jackson Wife & Marriage
Jesse Jackson married Jacqueline Lavinia Brown on August 19, 1962, in Greenville, South Carolina. She became his lifelong partner in family and activism. Together, they raised five children, nurturing family values alongside civil rights work. Moreover, Jacqueline stood beside Jackson during major civil rights campaigns and political activities. She also supported community initiatives and social justice causes. Their marriage reflected shared commitment, resilience, and faith, which strengthened Jackson’s public life. Even during challenges, Jacqueline remained a steady personal and moral support, shaping his legacy beyond leadership in the civil rights movement.
Jesse Jackson Children | Kids Names, Careers & Family Legacy
Jesse Jackson and Jacqueline Jackson raised five children together during their marriage. Their eldest son, Jesse Jackson Jr., became a U.S. Congressman representing Illinois. Next, Jonathan Jackson also served in Congress and worked as an activist and musician. Their daughter, Yusef DuBois Jackson, focused on business and community work. Meanwhile, Santita Jackson built a career in broadcasting and music, and Jacqueline Jackson Jr. worked in education and public service. Moreover, each child reflects family values of leadership, service, and civil rights commitment. The Jackson children continue their father’s legacy through public engagement and advocacy.
Jesse Jackson Family | Parents, Siblings & Early Life Background
Jesse Jackson was born into a large family in Greenville, South Carolina on October 8, 1941. His mother, Julia Jackson, worked as a domestic worker to support the family. Meanwhile, his father, Charles Henry Jackson, raised cattle and worked odd jobs during tough economic times. Jackson grew up with four siblings, and the family often faced financial hardship under Jim Crow segregation. As a result, he learned resilience and determination early in life. Moreover, his family’s challenges shaped his passion for civil rights, equality, and social justice activism in later years.
Rev. Jesse Jackson Death & Cause of Death
Jesse Jackson died at age 84 on February 17, 2026, at his home in Chicago, surrounded by family. His loved ones said he passed peacefully with support from those closest to him.
So far, no official cause of death has been publicly released by the family. However, Jackson faced long‑term health challenges, including an earlier diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease and later confirmed progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a rare neurological disorder that affects balance, movement, and eye control.
Jackson underwent medical care and hospitalization for PSP and related complications through late 2025, which substantially limited his mobility and required ongoing treatment. His health conditions reflect a lengthy battle with degenerative illness in his final years.
Overall, while the exact cause of death remains undisclosed, his final chapter was shaped by the progression of serious neurological health issues he managed over time.
Jesse Jackson Net Worth 2026
Jesse Jackson had an estimated net worth of $4 million, earned through decades of activism, leadership, and public speaking. He generated income from speaking engagements, books, television appearances, and leadership roles in civil rights organizations. Moreover, his work as a minister, author, and political figure contributed to his financial standing. Jackson’s earnings reflected his professional influence and decades of public service, emphasizing his commitment to justice and equality rather than personal profit. His net worth underscores the economic aspect of a long and impactful career in civil rights advocacy.