The Rev. Al Sharpton once said of himself; "I've never done anything else in my life other than preach and be an activist. Way before I was known." And it’s pretty much true. A look at Sharpton over the years reveals, that with the possible exception of his political career, he has spent decades seeking redress for racial wrongs . . . usually in front of a camera. And despite the persistent criticism that he’s merely a race hustler, his supporters see him as a dedicated public servant who shines media attention on injustices that might otherwise have been forgotten.
Photograph by Jake Chessum for Newsweek











