The Black Panther Party, established by Huey P. Newton and Bobby Seale in Oakland, California, marked a significant turning point in the fight for racial justice in the United States. Reacting to the pervasive police violence and systemic racism faced by African Americans, the founders were inspired to create an organization that not only emphasized community empowerment and self-defense but also advocated for social change. They developed a Ten-Point Program that outlined their demands and objectives, emphasizing issues such as housing, employment, education, and justice. The formation of the party aligned with the broader Civil Rights Movement but adopted a more militant stance compared to other organizations like the NAACP or Southern Christian Leadership Conference.

The Black Panther Party quickly grew in prominence, establishing chapters in major cities across the country. The organization attracted a diverse membership, including significant numbers of women who played essential roles in its initiatives. The Panthers implemented various community service programs, such as free breakfast programs for children, health clinics, and educational initiatives, aiming to address immediate needs while also challenging systemic issues. Their bold visibility and willingness to confront law enforcement often put them at odds with authorities, leading to violent confrontations and heightened tensions between the Panthers and the state.

As the organization expanded, it faced increasing scrutiny and repression from the FBI, whose COINTELPRO initiative sought to dismantle the party through surveillance, infiltration, and disinformation campaigns. Despite external pressures and internal challenges, the Black Panther Party persisted in its fight for justice throughout the late 1960s and into the 1970s, shaping discussion around civil rights, racial equality, and police brutality in America.