Jesse Jackson, close associate of Martin Luther King, has died

Reverend Jesse Jackson, a longtime civil rights leader and prominent figure in American politics, has died at the age of 84. After more than half a century in public life, he left a deep mark not only in the United States but also around the world, writes The Guardian.

As a close associate of Martin Luther King Jr., he was present at key moments in the fight against racial segregation and later founded the PUSH and Rainbow Coalition organizations, which promoted economic and social equality.

He ran twice for the Democratic Party's presidential nomination and, although unsuccessful, many believe he paved the way for Barack Obama's election.

In recent years, he struggled with a serious neurological disease and spoke openly about the persistent inequalities in American society.

His family described him as the voice of the oppressed and a symbol of perseverance.

(pir)