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Muhammad Ali

'I'm Free to be Who I Want to Be'

As Clay gained success, he was criticized for his socio-political and religious beliefs.

Aired 09/20/2021

FromKen Burns

Muhammad Ali

'I'm Free to be Who I Want to Be'

Clip: Episode 2 | 5m 34sVideo has Closed Captions

As Clay gained success, he was criticized for his socio-political and religious beliefs.

In 1964, at the young age of 22, Cassius Clay claimed the heavyweight title after defeating Sonny Liston — further cementing Clay's dominant presence in the boxing world. However, despite Clay's unequivocal prowess as a boxer, he drew criticism for his outspoken socio-political and religious beliefs, with many condemning him as "un-American."

Aired 09/20/2021

FromKen Burns

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Problems with Closed Captions? Closed Captioning Feedback

Corporate funding for MUHAMMAD ALI was provided by Bank of America. Major funding was provided by David M. Rubenstein. Major funding was also provided by The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations,...

Cassius Clay Changes His Name to Muhammad Ali

Video has Closed Captions

Elijah Muhammad offers Cassius a new name to secure his allegiance to the Nation of Islam. (3m 50s)

Muhammad Ali Embarks on a Tour Across Africa

Video has Closed Captions

Ali's tour of Africa revealed the mighty boxer's worldwide social influence. (3m 2s)

Muhammad Ali Fights Cleveland 'Big Cat' Williams

Video has Closed Captions

Muhammad Ali takes on Cleveland "Big Cat" Williams at the Astrodome in Houston, Texas. (2m 12s)

Muhammad Ali Is Found Guilty of Refusing the Draft

Video has Closed Captions

An all-white Houston jury found Muhammad Ali guilty of refusing the draft. (2m 39s)

Muhammad Ali Marries Belinda Boyd in Chicago

Video has Closed Captions

In 1966, Muhammad Ali met 16-year-old Belinda Boyd at a Nation of Islam bakery. (2m 50s)

Muhammad Ali Refuses the Vietnam War Draft

Video has Closed Captions

When Ali was drafted for Vietnam, many questioned whether he would accept the induction. (6m 15s)

Muhammad Ali's Focus on Racial Justice

Video has Closed Captions

In an interview, Ali hinted at retiring, saying he'd rather fight for racial justice. (2m 3s)

Outlash Follows Muhammad Ali's Criticism of the Vietnam War

Video has Closed Captions

Muhammad Ali faces outlash after condemning the Vietnam War. (6m 15s)

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Corporate funding for MUHAMMAD ALI was provided by Bank of America. Major funding was provided by David M. Rubenstein. Major funding was also provided by The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations,...

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