Wharlest Jackson
Birth date:
January 13, 1929
Death date:
February 27, 1967
Age at Death:
37
About
Wharlest Jackson was a Korean War veteran, married with five children, who worked at a tire company. He was also the treasurer of the Natchez, Mississippi branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People(NAACP). His company management had opened more positions to African Americans and promoted Jackson to a more advanced position that had previously been held only by whites. The promotion was heavily opposed by his wife, but the pay of 17 cents meant that his wife could quit her job as a cook and spend more time with their kids.
Wharlest Jackson was assassinated by a car bomb, which was planted on the frame of his truck under the driver side seat. The bomb went off at approximate 8pm. This supposedly occurred when he switched on his turn signal on his way home. The explosion caused serious damage to Jackson's lower torso and he died on the scene.
Was justice served?
As of March 12th Justice has not been served. The culprit was never found, and while the FBI suspected the involvement of the Ku Klux Klan, there was no investigation that came up with a conclusion or a culprit.