“Reverend Jackson also created opportunities for generations of African Americans and inspired countless more, including us,” Barack and Michelle Obama

President Trump also remembers Jackson as a "force of nature" with "lots of personality, grit and street smarts".

Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, a civil rights legend, passed away, mourning by leaders including Barack Obama, who honoured his lifelong service and legacy.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - August 27, 2008. U.S. Senator Barack Obama becomes the first African-American to be nominated for president of the United States at the Democratic National Convention. Obama won the election that year defeating Republican John McCain.

The late Rev. Jesse Jackson might best be remembered as a longtime civil rights leader, but he also played a pivotal role in presidential politics.

The civil rights icon, who died Tuesday at 84, campaigned for president in Vermont at a key turning point for the state’s progressive movement.