In advance of a forthcoming CNN documentary dedicated to the Civil Rights movement of the 1960's, on Thursday evening Anderson Cooper welcomed Georgia Congressman John Lewis.

Featured in the film, Lewis fought to end segregation and racial discrimination in the South. Recalling days of hate and injustice, Lewis spoke earnestly about a battle he knew might cost him his life:

"I thought I was going to die, I thought I saw death," Lewis told Cooper. "But I was prepared, and I was ready."

Watch the above clip for more of Lewis' powerful first hand perspective, and tune to CNN television as "The Sixties" continues.

CNN is looking back at all things "The Sixties" with the premiere of the new documentary series. Just before the premiere, Anderson spoke to a true living legend about some of the era's most memorable TV moments. Dick Cavett recounted his chaotic post-Woodstock episode, Johnny Carson's genius, and how tame some of the sixties' most controversial moments seem today.