Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali was not only a champion athlete but a cultural icon. While his skill as a boxer made him famous his strong personality and his identity as a black man in a country in the midst of the struggle for civil rights made him an enduring symbol. From his youth in segregated Louisville Kentucky to his victory in the 1960 Olympics to the controversy that surrounded his conversion to Islam and refusal of the draft during the Vietnam War Ali's life was closely linked to the major social and political struggles of the 1960s and 70s. The story of his struggles failures and triumphs sheds light on issues of race class religion dissent and the role of sports in American society that affected all Americans. In this lively concise biography Barbara L. Tischler introduces students to Ali's life in social and political context and explores his enduring significance as a symbol of resistance. Muhammad Ali: A Many of Many Voices offers the perfect introduction to this extraordinary American and his times. . Language: English