The Untold Story Of Huey P. Newton And The Black Panther Party’s Legacy

The Black Panther Party and its co-founder Huey P. Newton drew both allies and adversaries—most notably, the FBI—as they fought for social change and protection for Black Americans. Newton’s relationship with one of his most famous supporters is the subject of the new Apple TV+ miniseries The Big Cigar.

The six-episode series, which began Friday, stars André Holland as Newton and provides a dramatized account of the activist’s infamous flight to Cuba in 1974 while facing murder and assault charges in the United States. Based on a 2012 Playboy article written by Joshuah Bearman, The Big Cigar highlights movie producer Bert Schneider’s unlikely role in the scheme. He financed a fake film production to help Newton temporarily evade authorities and continue his quest for social revolution.

But the creative escape plot was only one part of the much more complex story of Newton’s role in the Black Panther Party and his repeated legal battles.

Newton's Path to Activism

Huey P. Newton co-founded the Black Panther Party for Self-Defense in 1966 alongside Bobby Seale in Oakland, California. This organization aimed to combat police brutality and empower the Black community through various social programs. The Black Panthers actively engaged in community outreach, including establishing schools for Black children and providing free breakfast programs throughout Oakland.

Newton’s charismatic leadership and sharp intellect quickly positioned him as a prominent figure within the movement. He was known for articulating the struggles faced by African Americans, effectively bringing attention to the systemic injustices they encountered daily. This dedication to activism brought both support and scrutiny, leading to heightened tensions with law enforcement and government agencies.

The FBI's Response to the Black Panther Party

The Black Panther Party’s rise did not go unnoticed. As their influence grew, so did the scrutiny from the FBI, which initiated extensive surveillance and infiltration tactics. The agency’s objective was to undermine the party's influence and disrupt its operations through a covert program known as COINTELPRO.

The FBI's actions included propaganda campaigns, misinformation, and attempts to create rifts among party members. These tactics ultimately aimed to dismantle the party by portraying them as violent extremists, despite their focus on community service and civil rights.

• Surveillance Tactics: The FBI employed various methods to monitor Panther activities, including wiretapping and undercover agents.
• Misinformation Campaigns: The FBI spread false narratives to incite distrust within the community and among party members.
• Legal Harassment: Numerous members faced arrests and charges, often based on fabricated evidence.

Legal Troubles and Escapes

Newton's life was marked by legal challenges, starting with his 1967 arrest following the shooting of an Oakland police officer. The incident led to a conviction for voluntary manslaughter, although it was later overturned. This legal battle only intensified the public's interest in his life and the Black Panther Party.

In 1974, facing renewed charges related to the murder of a young sex worker, Newton fled to Cuba. His escape was orchestrated with the help of Hollywood producer Bert Schneider, who financed a fake film project to facilitate Newton's departure. This flight marked a significant moment in Newton’s life and the ongoing narrative of the Black Panther Party.

Life in Cuba

During his nearly three-year stay in Cuba, Newton found a temporary refuge from the legal battles in the United States. He received support from notable friends and allies, including celebrities who visited him. Newton expressed gratitude for the Cuban government’s hospitality but also a sense of longing for his homeland.

In interviews, he described the Cuban people as welcoming and noted that he had not encountered racism during his time there. Despite this, he felt a strong desire to return to the U.S. and continue his activism, highlighting the unique contributions he believed he could make to the struggle for social justice back home.

The Return and Continued Struggles

Finally, in June 1977, Newton returned to the United States to face the charges against him, insisting on his innocence. His return coincided with a shift in the political landscape, which he felt provided a more favorable environment for his case. He cited public disillusionment with the government due to scandals like Watergate as a sign that he could mount a successful defense.

Upon his return, Newton was able to negotiate an agreement with the U.S. Justice Department, allowing him to plead not guilty without facing additional federal charges. His subsequent trial for murder and assault resulted in a deadlocked jury, leading to a mistrial and further demonstrating the complexities surrounding his legal battles.

The Fracturing of the Black Panther Party

As Newton faced ongoing legal issues, the Black Panther Party began to fracture internally. Disagreements over leadership and direction led to tensions within the group. Elaine Brown, appointed as the party’s leader during Newton's absence, implemented significant changes, including placing women in key roles, which caused unrest among some male members.

Following Newton's return, he attempted to reassert his influence over the party, but the disarray and the ongoing pressures from law enforcement ultimately led to its decline. By 1982, the Black Panther Party officially dissolved, marking the end of a significant chapter in the fight for civil rights.

Despite the dissolving of the party and the personal struggles he faced, Newton's legacy as a passionate advocate for social change continues to resonate. His life story is now being revisited through media representations, including the Apple TV+ miniseries The Big Cigar, which sheds light on his complex journey and the broader impact of the Black Panther Party.

Reflecting on Newton's Legacy

Huey P. Newton's life serves as a testament to the resilience of activists fighting for social justice. While he faced significant challenges, his commitment to advocating for the rights of marginalized communities left an indelible mark on American history. As new generations explore his story, it is crucial to recognize the lessons learned from his experiences and the ongoing relevance of the issues he championed.

In conclusion, the legacy of Huey P. Newton and the Black Panther Party remains a vital part of the narrative surrounding civil rights and social justice in the United States. Their struggles remind us of the importance of advocacy, community involvement, and the fight against systemic oppression. The stories of these activists inspire ongoing conversations about equality and justice, encouraging us to reflect on our responsibilities within our communities today.