The piece highlights the life and achievements of Reverend Jesse Jackson, who passed away recently at the age of 84. A prominent figure in the civil rights movement and a close associate of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Jackson was known for advocating non-violent resistance throughout his political career. His effectiveness as a negotiator earned him acclaim, particularly during the tumultuous era of the 1960s and 70s. However, one of the most notable negotiations of his career occurred in 1984 when he undertook the significant task of negotiating the release of prisoners from the Cuban government.

In June of 1984, Jackson embarked on a diplomatic mission to Havana, aiming to secure the freedom of 48 prisoners held by Fidel Castro’s regime. This meeting lasted six hours and, although it turned out to be one of Jackson's most critical achievements as an international mediator, it was met with skepticism from the U.S. government under President Ronald Reagan. Jackson's visit occurred during his campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination, which he ultimately lost to Walter Mondale. His initiative was ambitious and fraught with potential backlash given Reagan's hardline stance on Cuba and Castro.

The article contextualizes Jackson's negotiation within the broader landscape of U.S.-Cuba relations and the civil rights movement, illustrating how Jackson sought to advocate for human rights even when faced with political opposition back home. It reflects on his legacy, emphasizing how his groundbreaking work went beyond American borders, impacting lives and bringing attention to issues of justice and freedom during a time of great political tension.