AP Was There: A profile of Jesse Jackson as he prepared his 1984 campaign for the presidency

Associated Press (AP)CenterEN 8 min read 100% complete by By SHARON COHENFebruary 17, 2026 at 12:23 PM

AI Summary

long article 8 min

The Associated Press is republishing a 1983 profile of Rev. Jesse Jackson, originally written by Sharon Cohen, as he prepared for his 1984 presidential campaign. At the time, Jackson was a 41-year-old civil rights activist. The profile highlights Jackson's deep religious conviction and his self-perception as a prophetic figure driven to challenge societal injustices, similar to leaders like Jesus, Gandhi, and Martin Luther King Jr. Jackson saw his potential candidacy as a continuation of this mission, aiming to guide others "out of the wilderness." Jackson passed away at the age of 84.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Gary 40% Chicago 40% Jesus ×250% Washington, D.C. 50% Gandhi ×250% Richard Hatcher 60% Marion Barry 60% Civil Rights Movement ×270% Associated Press ×370% Martin Luther King Jr. ×380% Jesse Jackson ×8100%

Keywords

jesse jackson 100% 1984 presidential campaign 90% civil rights movement 80% presidential candidate 70% martin luther king jr. 60% prophetic ministry 50% religion 40%