George Jackson was an American civil rights activist and author, born on September 23, 1941, in Chicago, Illinois. He became a prominent figure in the Black Panther Party and is best known for his writings on race, class, and the prison system. His most notable work, "Soledad Brother," is a collection of letters that highlight the injustices faced by African Americans and prisoners. Jackson was incarcerated for armed robbery in 1961, where he became politically active. His experiences in prison led him to advocate for prison reform and social justice. He was killed during a prison escape attempt on August 21, 1971, becoming a martyr for the Black Panther Party and the broader struggle for civil rights.