John Sinclair, a poet and counterculture figure known for inspiring a John Lennon song and a star-studded 1971 concert to free him from prison, has died at age 82. Sinclair served 29 months of a 9 1/2-to-10-year prison sentence for giving two joints to undercover officers. Lennon's song 'John Sinclair' immortalized him. Sinclair continued advocating for marijuana legalization throughout his life.
Key Points
Inspired a John Lennon song and a 1971 concert for his release
Continued advocating for marijuana legalization
Co-founded the White Panther Party and later the Rainbow People's Party