Rennie Davis, one of the leftist, anti-war activists collectively known as the “Chicago Seven” who were tried in federal court for their part in the clashes with police at the 1968 Democratic National Convention died Feb. 2 at his home in Berthoud. He was 80 years old.

Davis had been diagnosed with lymphoma two weeks ago according to a post on social media by his wife Kirsten Liegmann.

Davis became a leader in the antiwar movement after graduating from Oberlin College in Ohio. He soon joined the activist organization Students for a Democratic Society and the National Mobilization Committee to End the War in Vietnam.

Photo courtesy of ffh.org – Rennie Davis

In 1968 Davis helped organize a group of antiwar activists with the goal of protesting at the Democratic National Convention held that year in Chicago. He negotiated to gain a permit with the Chicago city council but was unsuccessful.

On Tuesday, Aug. 27, 1968, a riot broke out in Grant Park in Chicago where helmeted police beat many of the demonstrators including Davis.

“The Chicago Seven” as the group of men were called who were charged with inciting the riot as well as other charges related to the protest included Davis.

The trial began on Sept. 24, 1968. Davis was found guilty and sentenced to five years imprisonment but had his conviction overturned on an appeal.

Later in life Davis became a venture capitalist and lecturer on topics like self-awareness and meditation.

Several books and films about Davis’ life have been produced including most recently the 2020 Aaron Sorkin film “The Trial of the Chicago 7.”

In addition to Liegmann, Davis is survived by three children from previous marriages: daughters Lia Davis, 44, and Maya Davis, 28; and a son, Sky Davis, 26; as well as three siblings and two grandchildren.