Jimi Hendrix - a Leader of Cultural Movement in America During The 1960's

What would happen if there was no one around to lead the world? There would be no order and everyone would not know exactly what to do. Laws would never have been passed because no one would take charge enough to make sure they’re upheld. Humans naturally have a pack mentality and in every pack, there must be a leader otherwise the pack will not know what to do or where to go. This is especially true when speaking about the world of movements and riots like the ones that were present throughout the sixties.

I believe that all of the movements in the 60s were due to the fact that there were many strong leaders at the time. I will speak on the fact that many of the movements would not have started if it were not for someone who was willing to push against the norm and fight for what they believe in. from the black panthers to the start of the counter culture there were many different men and women who stepped up to the plate.

Jimi Hendrix is the perfect instance of a leader who counter culture movement during the 1960's. During the movement Jimi Hendrix was a main leader that led the life of both a rebel and a revolutionary leader. He changed the lives of the everyday young American through the power of music promoting peace, love and drugs onto the people. Him along with other musicians such as Janis Joplin pushed the young American into a new direction turning previously conservative America. After a time of such discourse due to the Vietnam War the idea of peace was one the people took kindly to. People were thrilled by the message his music conveyed. This began the counter culture movement of the 60's that caused a social revolution among the American youth.

Jimi Hendrix's contributed to the world through his music. The Woodstock music festival was one of his main contributions to the music industry. This festival was named as "three days of peace and music". Though what Jimi Hendrix stood for was not the best influence on youth his work was very admired. Him along with other key figures in the counter culture movement revolutionized what America stood for at the time.

Founded in 1966, the Black Panther Party reached its peak just a few years later, although it did not disband until 1982. Despite its relatively short duration, the group created an enduring—though controversial—legacy. The Panthers’ campaign for African American equality not only had a lasting impact on black empowerment—with their influence felt in such current social movements as Black Lives Matter—it also inspired other minority groups to pursue their own causes. However, the Black Panther Party’s support of armed rebellion drew much criticism and often undermined the organization’s achievements. Below are some of the party’s key figures.

In 1966, Huey P. Newton and Bobby Seale established the Black Panther Party for Self Defense. Newton and Seale established the organization to monitor police brutality in African-American communities. Soon, the Black Panther Party extended its focus to include social activism and community resources such as health clinics and free breakfast programs. With the presentation of all these leaders it is very clear to see their importance to not only the movement but the people involved in the movement as well.