Co- founder and inspirational leader of the Black Panther Party for Self Defense, a black nationalist/racial equality organization that began in October 1966. The Panthers called on all blacks to arm themselves for the liberation struggle. The militant party engaged in several high-profile, violent confrontations with police. In 1967, Newton was convicted of voluntary manslaughter for killing a policeman. After three mistrials, Newton was cleared in 1971. That same year he announced the Panthers would embrace a nonviolent strategy and shift their focus to offering community services to African Americans. In 1974, he fled to Cuba to avoid drug and murder charges. He returned three years later, and two trials ended with hung juries. On August 22, 1989, Newton was shot and killed by a man known for drug dealing in Oakland. Media reports theorized Newton had become involved in drug dealing and was shot during a 'drug deal gone sour.' Rare 8 x 10 photo of Newton smiling pleasantly, signed on the reverse in blue ballpoint, “All Power to the People, Huey P. Newton.” Reverse also bears a Blank Panther Party photo credit stamp, complete with address and signature of photographer. In fine condition, with a touch of light soiling on reverse, not affecting signature and a few trivial surface marks to image. R&R COA.
