Muhammad Ali
- Born:
- January 17, 1942, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
- Died:
- June 3, 2016, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Professional Boxer, Activist, Philanthropist
Early Life and Education
- Born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. in Louisville, Kentucky.
- Experienced racial discrimination during his youth, which significantly shaped his later activism.
- Began boxing at age 12 after his bicycle was stolen.
- Attended Central High School in Louisville.
Career and Major Achievements
- Gold medalist at the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome.
- Became the world heavyweight champion for the first time in 1964, defeating Sonny Liston.
- Converted to Islam and changed his name to Muhammad Ali.
- Refused induction into the U.S. military during the Vietnam War due to religious beliefs, leading to a temporary suspension from boxing.
- Regained the heavyweight title twice more, becoming a three-time world heavyweight champion.
- Notable fights include "The Rumble in the Jungle" against George Foreman (1974) and "The Thrilla in Manila" against Joe Frazier (1975).
- Retired from boxing in 1981.
Notable Works
| Title | Year | Type |
|---|---|---|
| The Greatest: My Own Story | 1975 | Autobiography |
| Freedom Road | 1979 | Film (Actor) |
| Ali | 2001 | Biographical Film (Subject) |
Legacy and Impact
Muhammad Ali is remembered as one of the greatest boxers of all time and a significant cultural icon. His athletic prowess, social activism, and unwavering principles made him a global symbol of resistance and empowerment. Examining a 'muhammad ali biography childhood' reveals the roots of his later convictions and actions.