Eldridge Cleaver

Leroy Eldridge Cleaver (August 31, 1935 – May 1, 1998), writer, political activist, and convicted rapist who became an early leader of the Black Panther Party, authentic autographed 5 x 7 glossy photograph with additional signature, date and inscription on verso.

His book 'Soul On Ice' is a collection of essays praised by The New York Times Book Review at the time of its publication as "brilliant and revealing."

Cleaver went on to become a prominent member of the Black Panthers, having the titles 'Minister of Information' and 'Head of the International Section' of the Panthers while a fugitive from the United States criminal justice system in Cuba and Algeria. As editor of the official Panther's newspaper, Cleaver's influence on the direction of the Party was rivaled only by founders Huey P. Newton and Bobby Seale. Cleaver and Newton eventually fell out with each other, resulting in a split that weakened the party.

Cleaver pens in full on verso: "April 25, 1978 / Dear Barry: I'm glad to send you this photo. Keep your eyes on Jesus Christ / Eldridge Cleaver."

The signature on the front has moderate contrast issues in the last name "Cleaver" due to use of ball point on the gloss stock, else fine condition.