The Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party was established in Chicago in the late 1960s. The chapter was founded by Fred Hampton, a charismatic leader who was dedicated to addressing issues of police brutality, poverty, and systemic racism in the city.

Under Fred Hampton's leadership, the Illinois Black Panther Party developed various community programs such as free breakfast programs for children, health clinics, and education classes. These programs were part of the Panthers' larger mission to empower and uplift the Black community, while also challenging the oppressive systems that kept Black people marginalized.

However, the Illinois Black Panther Party also faced intense scrutiny and repression from the government, particularly the FBI's COINTELPRO program, which sought to undermine and dismantle Black radical movements. In 1969, Fred Hampton was tragically assassinated in a police raid on the chapter's headquarters, an event that sparked outrage and further galvanized the Black Panther movement.

Overall, the Illinois Black Panther Party played a significant role in the Black liberation struggle of the 1960s and 1970s, and their legacy continues to inspire activists fighting against racial injustice today.