Eldridge Cleaver

Eldridge Cleaver

Eldridge Cleaver (August 31, 1935 – May 1, 1998) was an American writer, political activist, and prominent member of the Black Panther Party. He is best known for his book Soul on Ice, a collection of essays that became a seminal work in the history of the Civil Rights Movement.

Early Life

Cleaver was born in Wabbaseka, Arkansas, and raised in Los Angeles, California. His early life was marked by encounters with the criminal justice system, leading to several incarcerations. During his time in prison, Cleaver began to read extensively and developed his writing skills.

Involvement with the Black Panther Party

In 1966, Cleaver joined the Black Panther Party, a revolutionary socialist organization that advocated for the rights of African Americans. He quickly rose to prominence within the party, becoming the Minister of Information. Cleaver was instrumental in shaping the party's ideology and public image.

Soul on Ice

Cleaver's book, Soul on Ice, published in 1968, is a collection of essays that discuss race relations in the United States, the role of the Black Panther Party, and Cleaver's own experiences with racism and the criminal justice system. The book was praised for its candid and provocative insights into the African American experience.

Exile and Return

Following a shootout between the Black Panthers and the Oakland Police Department in 1968, Cleaver fled the United States to avoid arrest. He spent several years in exile, living in countries such as Cuba, Algeria, and France. During this time, Cleaver continued to write and speak about his political beliefs.

Cleaver returned to the United States in 1975, where he faced legal consequences for his earlier activities. He eventually renounced his radical views and became involved in conservative politics, even running for public office as a Republican.

Later Life and Legacy

In his later years, Cleaver struggled with personal issues, including drug addiction. Despite these challenges, he remained a significant figure in discussions about race and politics in America. Cleaver passed away on May 1, 1998, in Pomona, California.

Cleaver's life and work continue to be studied for their impact on the Civil Rights Movement and their contributions to the discourse on race and justice in America.

See Also

• Black Panther Party
• Civil Rights Movement
• Huey P. Newton
• Bobby Seale

References

• Cleaver, Eldridge. Soul on Ice. New York: McGraw-Hill, 1968.
• Joseph, Peniel E. Waiting 'Til the Midnight Hour: A Narrative History of Black Power in America. New York: Henry Holt and Company, 2006.