Picture a young man from rural Alabama, standing tall against injustice with courage and grace—meet John Lewis! Born in 1940, Lewis transformed from a preacher’s son into a towering figure in the American civil rights movement and a beloved U.S. Congressman. His life’s work, from leading the Selma marches to penning the award-winning graphic novel series March, continues to inspire dreamers and doers worldwide.
With a voice that echoed hope and a pen that captured history, Lewis’s journey wasn’t just about politics—it was about storytelling. His memoirs and graphic novels invite readers into the heart of the fight for equality, blending raw honesty with unshakable optimism. Let’s dive into the life of this remarkable man!
The Making of John Lewis
John Lewis grew up in Troy, Alabama, the son of sharecroppers, surrounded by the harsh realities of segregation. As a boy, he preached to chickens on his family farm, honing the oratory skills that would later captivate crowds. Inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Lewis joined the civil rights movement as a teenager, becoming a founding member of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). His early activism, including sit-ins and Freedom Rides, marked him as a fearless leader willing to face arrest and violence for justice.
John Lewis’s Unforgettable Stories
Lewis’s written works are as powerful as his activism. His memoir, Walking with the Wind: A Memoir of the Movement (1998), is a vivid recounting of his life in the civil rights struggle. With lyrical prose, it captures the triumphs and heartaches of a nation in transition, earning praise for its authenticity. Then came March, a three-part graphic novel series co-authored with Andrew Aydin and illustrated by Nate Powell. Published between 2013 and 2016, March brings Lewis’s experiences to life through striking visuals, making the civil rights era accessible to younger readers. The series won multiple awards, including the National Book Award, for its innovative storytelling.
Lewis’s style is direct yet deeply personal, weaving historical events with emotional resonance. His works focus on themes of nonviolence, resilience, and the power of collective action. Whether through the reflective tone of Walking with the Wind or the dynamic panels of March, Lewis invites readers to not just learn history but feel its weight and hope.
Why John Lewis Matters
John Lewis’s impact stretches far beyond his 33 years in Congress or his civil rights leadership. His writings have inspired a new generation to engage with history and activism. March is now a staple in schools, sparking conversations about equality and justice. Lewis’s philosophy of “good trouble”—the idea that principled resistance can change the world—remains a rallying cry for activists globally. His ability to bridge past and present through storytelling ensures his legacy endures.
About John Lewis
- Born: February 21, 1940, in Troy, Alabama
- Key Works: Walking with the Wind, March (trilogy)
- Awards: National Book Award, Presidential Medal of Freedom
- Died: July 17, 2020
Ready to be inspired? Grab March or Walking with the Wind and step into John Lewis’s world of courage and change!