O’Neal’s Betrayal: Fred Hampton, Black Panther Leader and Legacy

On December 4, 1969, Fred Hampton, a 21-year-old activist and leader of the Black Panther Party, was targeted in an early-morning raid coordinated by the FBI and Chicago police. The raid resulted in Hampton’s death and its success depended on William O’Neal, an FBI informant who had infiltrated the Panthers. O’Neal’s actions had devastating consequences.

The Role of William O’Neal

William O’Neal, under pressure to avoid legal charges, provided the FBI with a detailed layout of Hampton’s apartment. This information proved crucial to the deadly operation. Hampton was asleep next to his pregnant partner, Akua Njeri. Fellow Panther Mark Clark was also killed during the raid. According to history.com, the events leading up to Fred Hampton’s death included William O’Neal’s role as an informant for the FBI (https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/fred-hampton-killed). This highlights the impact of O’Neal’s betrayal on Hampton and the Black Panther Party.

Fred Hampton’s Rise and Influence

Hampton’s rise within the Black Panther Party was rapid. He joined the Illinois chapter in 1968 and quickly became a prominent voice for racial equality and revolutionary progress. The Black Panthers, founded by Huey Newton and Bobby Seale, stood against racism and police violence, often employing militant tactics to combat injustice. The PBS documentary, The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution (https://www.pbs.org/independentlens/films/black-panthers/), provides a broader understanding of the political climate and challenges faced by the party, including the events surrounding Fred Hampton’s death and the FBI’s involvement.

The Betrayal and its Aftermath

O’Neal, a petty criminal recruited by the US police to inform on the Black Panthers, infiltrated the group and rose to become head of security, gaining Hampton’s trust. His betrayal had terrible results. The events surrounding Hampton’s death sparked outrage and controversy. Investigations revealed inconsistencies in the police account, leading to suspicions of a planned assassination. Hampton and Clark’s families filed lawsuits against the FBI and police, alleging wrongful death and conspiracy. After years of legal battles, a settlement was reached, but the government never admitted guilt.

Legacy and Impact

The case remains a symbol of government overreach and the suppression of dissent during a turbulent period in American history. Years later, O’Neal expressed regret for his role, describing himself as “a pawn in a very big game.” He died by suicide in 1990 and will forever be associated with this tragic loss during the civil rights era. Fred Hampton’s legacy extends far beyond his death. He is remembered as a powerful speaker and community organizer who championed the rights of the poor and marginalized. He united Black, white, and Latino communities through the Rainbow Coalition, demonstrating a vision of unity that transcended racial boundaries. Hampton’s commitment to justice continues to inspire activists today, reminding us of the power of collective action and the ongoing fight for equality. As the Chicago Tribune review of Judas and the Black Messiah (https://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/movies/ct-judas-and-the-black-messiah-review-20210211-7435246375357l54q646444-story.html) suggests, the film explores the complex motivations behind O’Neal’s actions and their impact on the Black Panther Party.

Remembering Fred Hampton

Hampton’s dedication to justice inspires activists today. He believed in the power of people working together. He reminds us that the fight for equality continues.