History and Origins
In what year did Black August begin?
1979
Name the leader whose death in 1971 became central to Black August.
George Jackson
What should all people be treated with, according to the movement?
Equality, no matter their race
In what year was the BGF founded?
1966
What year was George Jackson born?
1941
Black August began in a California prison in 1979. Name the prison, the group that started it, and its main purpose.
San Quentin State Prison, started by the Black Guerilla Family to honor fallen Black freedom fighters and political prisoners, and to raise awareness about resistance to oppression.
Where did Black August originate?
San Quentin State Prison, California
Name George Jackson’s younger brother, also honored in Black August.
Jonathan Jackson
What do they believe people in prison have the right to be treated with?
Respect and fairness
Who were the founders of the BGF?
George Jackson, W.L. Nolen, and others
At what age was George Jackson incarcerated?
18
This activist, author, and Black Panther Party member became a symbol of Black resistance after educating himself in prison, writing Soledad Brother and Blood in My Eye, and being killed in 1971 during an alleged escape attempt. Who was he?
George Jackson
What main difference separates Black August from Black History Month?
It focuses on resistance, political prisoners, and ongoing struggles against oppression
Name one woman leader honored during Black August.
Assata Shakur
What do they believe Black people should do for each other in times of injustice?
Unite and support each other
Where was the BGF founded?
San Quentin State Prison, California
What crime was he convicted of when first imprisoned?
$70 gas station robbery
Name all three core beliefs that the Black Guerilla Family and Black August movement stood for.
All people should be treated equally, no matter their race.
People in prison should be treated with respect and fairness.
Black people should unite and support each other, especially against injustice.
Which group started Black August?
Incarcerated members of the Black Guerilla Family
This leader was a civil rights activist and member of the Nation of Islam who is also honored.
Malcolm X
What two main values was the BGF originally about, instead of crime?
Politics and education
Name one key principle of the BGF.
Standing against racism / working together for big changes / teaching and learning about history, justice, and freedom
Name one of the books George Jackson wrote in prison.
Soledad Brother or Blood in My Eye
The Black Guerilla Family was founded in 1966 by George Jackson, W.L. Nolen, and others. Name the location and two of its original goals.
San Quentin State Prison; goals included standing against racism, working together to make societal changes, and teaching/learning about history, justice, and freedom.
What is the purpose of Black August?
To honor fallen Black freedom fighters, political prisoners, and raise awareness about injustice
Name the leader whose death in prison in 1978 also influenced the movement.
Khatari Gaulden
What is the ultimate purpose of resistance according to the movement?
Freedom and justice
Why did the BGF start?
To unite against racism, make societal changes, and educate members about history and justice
On what date was George Jackson killed in prison?
August 21, 1971
What are two key reasons Black August is different from Black History Month?
Black August focuses on resistance, political prisoners, and ongoing struggles against oppression.
It was founded to honor those who sacrificed their lives for Black liberation, especially from within prison.