The Rev. Jesse Jackson, pioneering civil rights activist and racial ‘pathfinder,’ dies at 84

The Rev. Jesse Jackson, a towering civil rights icon and protégé of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., has passed away at the age of 84. A two-time presidential candidate, Jackson is credited with reshaping the Democratic Party into a multicultural "Rainbow Coalition" and paving the way for future leaders like Barack Obama and Kamala Harris.

Beyond his political legacy, he was a tireless advocate for the "voiceless," known for his fiery oratory and global humanitarian efforts, including negotiating the release of international hostages. Even in his later years, Jackson remained a fixture on the front lines of social justice, leaving behind an indelible mark on American history.

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This article was published on CNN on February 17, 2026, and written by John Blake and Alex Stambaugh