In the 1960s Huey P. Newton founded the Black Panther Party for Self-Defense. While the Panthers brandished guns and military wear, Newton and the Panthers were just as militant about serving the community. During Newton’s time as the leader of the Party, in addition to “policing the police,” the Panthers engaged in several community initiatives such as the Free Breakfast for School Children Project, Panther health clinics, free alternative education, and other various affordable and free programs. Newton’s actions, however, spawned much controversy. In his life he was embroiled in 2 infamous murder/manslaughter trials, and while Newton was not convicted, many questioned his innocence. Elaine Brown, who was appointed as the leader of the Party at one point, contends that violence and particularly gendered violence sanctioned by Newton forcer her to leave the Party. Tragically, Newton was also a user of drugs, and in 1989 was shot and killed by a drug dealer after leaving an Oakland crack house. While to some Huey P. Newton was controversial his life and the initiatives enacted under his leadership, continue to spark much debate.