More Than A Boxer: Part of America's Conscious
Born Cassius Clay Jr., Ali changed his name in 1964 after joining the Nation of Islam.
Citing his religious beliefs, he refused military induction and was stripped of his heavyweight championship and banned from boxing for three years during the prime of his career.
Muhammad Ali's views and actions on Vietnam led to strong reactions of either admiration or hate and hatred.
As on of the most popular athletes of his time he was important because he inspired others to stand up for their beliefs and express their decisions not to support a war that they did not and could not believe in.
The controversy of his actions came from the fact that most athletes and celebrities were following government lines and supporting the war. Many people felt the need to try and silence him. He gave a face to those that did not believe in it.
Citing his religious beliefs, he refused military induction and was stripped of his heavyweight championship and banned from boxing for three years during the prime of his career.
Muhammad Ali's views and actions on Vietnam led to strong reactions of either admiration or hate and hatred.
As on of the most popular athletes of his time he was important because he inspired others to stand up for their beliefs and express their decisions not to support a war that they did not and could not believe in.
The controversy of his actions came from the fact that most athletes and celebrities were following government lines and supporting the war. Many people felt the need to try and silence him. He gave a face to those that did not believe in it.