John Lewis (1940–2020) was a leading figure in the American Civil Rights Movement and a respected politician. Born to sharecroppers in Alabama, Lewis became a prominent activist in the struggle for racial equality and social justice. As a young man, he played a pivotal role in organizing nonviolent protests and participating in historic events such as the Freedom Rides and the March on Washington.
Lewis was a key figure in the Selma to Montgomery marches, including the events of Bloody Sunday, where he endured brutal violence by Alabama State Troopers on the Edmund Pettus Bridge. Despite facing physical attacks and numerous arrests, Lewis remained steadfast in his commitment to nonviolent resistance and civil rights.
From activism, Lewis transitioned to politics, serving as a member of the United States House of Representatives for Georgia's 5th congressional district from 1987 until his passing in 2020. Throughout his life, Lewis remained a tireless advocate for justice and equality, earning widespread admiration and respect for his unwavering dedication to the principles of democracy and human rights.
The Joy Trip Project celebrates the enduring legacy of Black American History. The Unhidden Minute is part of the Unhidden Podcast Project supported through a National Geographic Explorer Grant from the National Geographic Society, with the cooperation of the National Park Service. This series elevates the untold stories of Black American historical figures, events and cultural contributions.
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John Lewis