Meaning: The quote you provided is from George Jackson, an activist and author known for his influential writings on race, class, and the prison system in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s. The quote highlights the systemic repression and violence experienced by Black people, particularly within the context of incarceration and law enforcement.

In this quote, Jackson references "the savage repression of blacks," drawing attention to the brutal treatment and violence directed at Black individuals by the state and its institutions. He uses the obituary columns of the nation's newspapers as a barometer for understanding the extent of this repression. By mentioning specific names such as Fred Hampton, Jackson likely seeks to emphasize the real and personal impact of this repression, as Fred Hampton was a prominent Black activist and leader in the Black Panther Party who was killed by law enforcement.

Jackson's use of the term "black inmates" also suggests a specific focus on the experiences of Black individuals within the prison system. His choice of words conveys a sense of solidarity and shared experience among those who are incarcerated and marginalized within the criminal justice system.

The quote captures the deep sense of injustice and inequality that Jackson sought to address through his activism and writings. Born into poverty and facing systemic racism from a young age, Jackson's personal experiences informed his understanding of the intersecting oppressions faced by Black individuals in the United States.

In his writings, Jackson critiqued the capitalist system and the ways in which it perpetuated racial inequality and exploitation. He argued that the prison-industrial complex was a tool of social control and oppression, particularly targeting Black communities. His analysis of the prison system as a site of racialized violence and repression aligns with the sentiments expressed in the quote you provided.

Jackson's activism extended beyond his writing; he was also involved in organizing and advocating for the rights of incarcerated individuals. His own experiences of incarceration, including his time in San Quentin State Prison, further shaped his understanding of the struggles faced by Black inmates and fueled his commitment to challenging the status quo.

Tragically, Jackson's life was cut short when he was killed in a prison uprising in 1971. Nevertheless, his legacy and writings continue to inspire and influence movements for racial justice and prison reform.

In conclusion, the quote by George Jackson sheds light on the systemic repression and violence experienced by Black individuals, particularly within the context of incarceration. It reflects Jackson's deep commitment to addressing racial inequality and the intersecting oppressions faced by Black communities in the United States. His words resonate with the ongoing struggles for justice and equality, serving as a reminder of the urgent need to confront and dismantle systems of oppression.