The Black Panther Party was a revolutionary socialist organization founded in 1966 by Huey Newton and Bobby Seale. The Party aimed to establish economic, social, and political equality for African Americans and other oppressed groups through their 10-point program. They provided social programs like free breakfasts for children and medical clinics to serve poor communities. The Party also advocated for armed self-defense against police brutality, and some members engaged in violent confrontations with law enforcement.