Angela Davis

Angela Yvonne Davis (born January 26, 1944) is an African American radical activist, primarily working for racial and gender equity and for prison abolition.

Notoriety

In 1970 Davis became the third woman to appear on the FBI's Most Wanted List when she was charged with conspiracy, kidnapping, and homicide, due to her alleged participation in an escape attempt from Marin County Hall of Justice. She evaded the police for two months before being captured, tried, and acquitted of all charges eighteen months later. Allegedly, Johnathan Jackson, younger brother of prison inmate and cause célèbre, George Jackson, had stolen the guns from Angela's home to use in the escape attempt. While being held in the Women's Detention Center in New York City, Davis got on well with other inmates and with the help of her outside supporters was able to mobilize the prisoners, in particular, helping to initiate a bail program for indigent prisoners. Initially, she was segregated from the general population in deplorable conditions, but with the help of her excellent legal team was able in short order obtain a Federal court order squashing that practice. The excuse was that prisoners might be hostile to her, but, in fact, most of the other prisoners were friendly and supportive. In 1972, she was exonerated on all charges.

Related Topics:
1970 - FBI - Most Wanted List - Conspiracy - Kidnapping - Homicide - Marin County - Cause célèbre - George Jackson - Bail

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In 1972 John Lennon and Yoko Ono released the song "Angela" about her and Rolling Stones released "Sweet Black Angel" which chronicled her legal problems and agitated for her release.

Related Topics:
1972 - John Lennon - Yoko Ono - Rolling Stones

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