Announcing his bid to become the Democratic National candidate in the presidential election of 1984, the Rev. Jesse Jackson entered the limelight of American politics. His attempt to become the first black president was not only a historic move but a symbolic one as well. America never had to contend with a black candidate before; many people wondered if this country was ready for one. The Jackson candidacy turned out to be much more than just a race for the White House. With his motivating style, his political success abroad, and his effect on black political activism, Jackson caught the attention of Americans everywhere--Americans of all races and backgrounds. Although he made a few mistakes and earned much criticism, Jackson, with his charisma and character, opened the eyes of black and white voters alike and changed politics in this country.
At first glance, it was not only Jackson's color which attracted attention on the political scene but also his style of addressing the masses, whether at a convention, a political rally or on TV. With an oratorical flourish that proved its flexibility, Jackson inspired blacks while demonstrating to whites that he was more than just a black-movement fanatic. In his first television debate with Walter Mondale and Gary Hart, critics were quick to say that he came across as statesmanlike and articulate, insuring to Americans everywhere that he was trying to make a serious and measured step toward the White House. Others said that he rivaled even President Reagan with his "homey and direct" mastery of television. Nevertheless, Jackson is still remembered for his public speeches addressed primarily to blacks. In ghettos and factories, he plugged away at the Reagan administration with a style rich in metaphor and Biblical allusions, conventions common to Baptist churches and black slang. In trying to spark the somewhat sluggish movement of blacks on the political front, Jackson succ...