What was a major characteristic of Huey Newton's activism?

Huey Newton is best known as a co-founder of the Black Panther Party, which adopted a radical approach to addressing issues of systemic racism, social injustice, and police brutality experienced by African Americans in the 1960s and 1970s. The party emphasized self-defense against police violence, community empowerment, and armed resistance, distinguishing it from other civil rights movements that favored a more moderate, nonviolent strategy.

Newton's activism was characterized by a militant stance, advocating for the overthrow of an oppressive system rather than merely seeking reform within the existing structures. This radical activism not only involved direct action but also community programs, such as free breakfast programs and health clinics, aiming to provide immediate support to underserved populations. The emphasis on self-defense and community autonomy was a hallmark of the Black Panther Party's philosophy and Newton's leadership, marking a significant shift in the civil rights narrative of the time.