'During my presidential run in 1984, I received the most death threats ever made toward a candidate'

The Rev Jesse Jackson, 70, was born in South Carolina. He is one of America's foremost religious and political figures, having worked in the civil-rights movement with Martin Luther King in the mid-60s and running for the US presidency in 1984 and 1988. In 1991 he was elected senator of Washington DC. He is founder and president of the Rainbow Push Coalition.

When were you happiest?

In college, meeting my wife and then having our first child, and marching together to bring down the walls of Jim Crow.

What is your greatest fear?

Early on, when we lived under constant threat. Many of my friends and leaders – Dr King, Bobby Kennedy, Malcolm X – were assassinated. I was extended secret service protection during my presidential run in 1984, when I received the most death threats ever made toward a candidate.

What is your earliest memory?

My father, who was in the US military overseas fighting fascism during the second world war, came home on furlough and we saw him walking up the street in his uniform. We were so proud.

What is your most treasured possession?

My ordination papers, my college diploma and the Presidential Medal of Freedom which was bestowed upon me by President Clinton.

What is your guiltiest pleasure?

To be in a plush seat at the ball game with some friends, knowing that some poor youth couldn't get in because they couldn't afford a ticket. Sometimes I give them tickets and have them sit with me.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

My favourite – not overused – phrase is, "Keep Hope Alive!"

What do you owe your parents?

My being, my cultural orientation, my sense of faith and courage.

To whom would you most like to say sorry, and why?

To my wife, Jackie, for any pain and inconvenience I've caused her through the years.

What or who is the greatest love of your life?

My wife, to whom I've been married for nearly 50 years. Without her, I would never have had a family nor been able to make the contribution to our struggle.

What has been your biggest disappointment?

Many have fought for and even lost their lives to end segregation, to win the right to vote. It disappoints me to now have to cajole people to register and to vote.

If you could edit your past, what would you change?

While I've spent a lot of quality time with my children, perhaps it's not been enough.

When did you last cry, and why?

At Grant Park, Chicago, during the victory celebration of Barack Obama's election as the first African-American president of the United States.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Surviving as a long-distance runner – a life of service now spanning more than 50 years.

What keeps you awake at night?

Reflecting on the unfinished business of the civil rights journey.

What is the most important lesson life has taught you?

If you fall behind, run faster. Never give up, never surrender, and rise up against the odds.

Where would you most like to be right now?

In South Africa, sharing a contemplative moment with Nelson Mandela.

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