Fred Hampton

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Fred Hampton (August 30, 1948 – December 4, 1969) was an American activist and revolutionary socialist. He was a prominent member of the Black Panther Party (BPP) and served as chairman of the Illinois chapter. Hampton was known for his leadership skills, his ability to organize and unite people, and his dedication to the fight against racial and economic injustice.

Early Life

Fred Hampton was born in Summit, Illinois, and grew up in the Chicago suburb of Maywood, Illinois. He was an excellent student and athlete, graduating from Proviso East High School with honors. Hampton went on to attend Triton College and later Malcolm X College, where he studied pre-law.

Activism

Hampton's activism began at a young age. He joined the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and quickly rose to a leadership position within the organization's Youth Council. His work with the NAACP focused on improving educational resources and recreational facilities for the black community in Maywood.

Black Panther Party

In 1968, Hampton joined the Black Panther Party and became the chairman of the Illinois chapter. He was instrumental in organizing community programs such as the Free Breakfast for Children Program and the establishment of a free medical clinic. Hampton also worked to form alliances with other activist groups, including the Young Lords and the Students for a Democratic Society (SDS), as part of his vision for a "Rainbow Coalition."

Death

Fred Hampton was killed on December 4, 1969, during a raid by the Chicago Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on his apartment. The raid resulted in the deaths of Hampton and fellow Black Panther member Mark Clark. The circumstances of Hampton's death have been widely criticized, with many alleging that it was an assassination orchestrated by the FBI as part of its COINTELPRO program.

Legacy

Fred Hampton's legacy continues to inspire activists and movements for social justice. His life and work have been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and films. The Fred Hampton Scholarship Fund and the Fred Hampton Aquatic Center in Maywood are named in his honor.

Related Pages

• Black Panther Party
• COINTELPRO
• Young Lords
• Students for a Democratic Society
• Free Breakfast for Children Program
• Mark Clark