A civil rights leader and congressman who fought for racial equality and voting rights through nonviolent protest and legislation.
As a prominent leader in the American civil rights movement, John Lewis is renowned for his unwavering commitment to ending racial segregation and discrimination, as well as his pivotal role in shaping the country's political landscape.
Born on February 21, 1940, in rural Pike County, Alabama, Lewis grew up in a family of sharecroppers, where he was instilled with a strong sense of community and social justice. This upbringing laid the foundation for his future activism, as he became deeply involved in the civil rights movement during his teenage years.
Lewis' journey began with the Nashville sit-ins in 1960, where he, along with other students, peacefully protested segregation at lunch counters. This marked the beginning of his tireless efforts to challenge racial injustice, which would lead him to participate in the Freedom Rides, the March on Washington, and the Selma to Montgomery marches, among other notable events.
In 1963, Lewis became the chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), a position he held until 1966. During this period, he worked closely with other prominent civil rights leaders, including Martin Luther King Jr., to push for voting rights and desegregation.
One of the most significant events in Lewis' life was the March on Washington, where he, as a member of the "Big Six," played a crucial role in organizing this seminal event. The following year, Lewis led the first Selma to Montgomery march, which ended in a brutal confrontation with state troopers and police on Edmund Pettus Bridge, an incident that would come to be known as Bloody Sunday.
In 1986, Lewis was elected to the United States House of Representatives, representing Georgia's 5th congressional district. Over the next 34 years, he would go on to serve 17 terms, earning the respect and admiration of his peers, as well as the nation.
Lewis received numerous accolades for his work, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2012, bestowed upon him by President Barack Obama. He was also awarded multiple honorary degrees and received the Martin Luther King Jr. Nonviolent Peace Prize.
John Lewis' unwavering commitment to civil rights and social justice has left an indelible mark on American history. His tireless efforts have inspired generations of activists, politicians, and everyday citizens to continue fighting for equality and human rights. As a testament to his enduring influence, Lewis' legacy continues to shape the country's political landscape, ensuring that his message of hope, love, and nonviolent resistance will endure for years to come.
"When you see something that is not right, not just, not fair, you have a moral obligation to do something."
"We were beaten, we were tear-gassed, we were arrested... But we never gave up."
John Lewis passed away on July 17, 2020, but his spirit and legacy continue to inspire and empower future generations to strive for a more just and equitable society.
99 Years Old
A legendary jazz musician who revolutionized the genre with his improvisational style and iconic albums like "Kind of Blue". He's synonymous with cool, jazzy sophistication.
Born in 1920
A pioneering jazz saxophonist and composer, known for his lightning-fast solos and innovative bebop style that revolutionized jazz music. 82
Born in 1917
A jazz legend who revolutionized piano playing and composition with unorthodox techniques and harmonies, creating a unique, improvisational style that continues to inspire generations of musicians.
Born in 1917
A virtuosic trumpet player and composer who revolutionized jazz with his lightning-fast solos and iconic puffy cheeks, creating a new language for the instrument. He's synonymous with bebop and modern jazz.
99 Years Old
A legendary jazz saxophonist and composer who revolutionized the genre with his innovative, spiritually-driven improvisations and iconic albums like "A Love Supreme".
96 Years Old
A highly influential and innovative jazz pianist and composer, known for his lyrical and introspective playing style, which expanded the possibilities of jazz harmony and improvisation.
86 Years Old
A legendary jazz pianist and composer who blended traditional and electronic elements, creating a unique sound that has inspired generations of musicians.
Born in 1925
A virtuosic jazz pianist and masterful composer, renowned for his dazzling technique, elegant style, and iconic trio performances.
