Elbert Howard facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Elbert Howard
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Howard lecturing in Amsterdam, The Netherlands in January 1970
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| Born | January 5, 1938 Chattanooga, Tennessee, U.S.
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| Died | July 23, 2018 (aged 80) Santa Rosa, California, U.S.
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| Other names | Big Man |
| Occupation | Activist, author, lecturer |
Elbert Howard (January 5, 1938 – July 23, 2018), also known as Big Man, was an important American activist and writer. He helped start a group called the Black Panther Party, which worked for civil rights.
Starting the Black Panther Party
Elbert Howard served in the United States Air Force in Europe for several years. After his time in the Air Force, he moved to Oakland, California. While studying at Merritt College, he met Bobby Seale and Huey P. Newton.
In 1966, when he was 28, Elbert Howard became one of the six people who first started the Black Panther Party. This group worked to protect the rights of African Americans and help their communities. The other founding members were Bobby Seale, Huey Newton, "L'il" Bobby Hutton, Reggie Forte, and Sherman Forte.
Howard was a very active member of the Black Panther Party from 1966 to 1974. He was known as the "Deputy Minister of Information." This meant he often spoke for the party, especially when other members were not able to.
Life After the Party
After leaving the Black Panther Party in 1974, Howard moved back to Tennessee. In Memphis, he helped lead several educational groups that focused on African American progress.
In 2001, Elbert Howard wrote a book about his experiences called Panther on the Prowl. This book shared his story about the Black Panthers. In 2003, he worked to help people who had been in trouble with the law get a fresh start. He also joined a group that worked for reparations, which means making up for past wrongs.
Later Years and Legacy
Until he passed away, Elbert Howard lived in Forestville, California with his wife, Carole Hyams. They were married in 2007. He helped create a group called the Police Accountability Clinic & Helpline in Sonoma County. This group helps people with concerns about police actions.
He was also a board member for KWTF, a local community radio station. Elbert Howard loved jazz music, which is an original American art form. He hosted jazz and blues music shows on several radio stations.
Elbert Howard passed away on July 23, 2018. His work helped bring attention to civil rights and community support.
