The Illinois Black Panther Party was established in Chicago in 1968 as a branch of the national organization, the Black Panther Party for Self-Defense, which was founded in Oakland, California by Huey Newton and Bobby Seale in 1966. The Illinois chapter quickly became one of the most prominent and active branches of the Black Panther Party.

The Illinois Black Panther Party focused on addressing issues of police brutality, poverty, and lack of access to healthcare and education in African American communities in Chicago. They established community programs such as free breakfast programs for children, health clinics, and educational initiatives to empower and uplift Black residents.

The Illinois Black Panther Party was also known for its community organizing efforts and confrontations with local law enforcement. They operated with a philosophy of self-defense and armed patrols to monitor and challenge police brutality in African American neighborhoods.

One of the most notable figures in the Illinois Black Panther Party was Fred Hampton, who served as the chairman of the Illinois chapter. Hampton was a charismatic leader and activist who worked tirelessly to unite diverse groups within Chicago's Black and Puerto Rican communities.

Tragically, Fred Hampton was assassinated by law enforcement in a raid on his apartment in December 1969. His death sparked outrage and further galvanized the Black Panther movement in Chicago and across the country.

Despite facing intense government repression and surveillance, the Illinois Black Panther Party continued to be a significant force for social change and activism in Chicago throughout the 1970s. Their legacy continues to inspire and influence Black liberation movements today.