The Black Panther Party was a revolutionary organization founded in 1966 in Oakland, California, aimed at combating systemic racism and police brutality against African Americans. They advocated for self-defense, community programs, and social justice, becoming a symbol of the struggle for civil rights during the 1960s and 1970s. The party's members, known for their distinctive black berets and leather jackets, organized various community initiatives, including free breakfast programs and health clinics. Despite facing significant opposition from law enforcement and government agencies, the Black Panther Party left a lasting impact on the fight for equality and social justice in the United States.