Six athlete protests that changed history
Muhammad Ali Refuses To Serve In Vietnam
Muhammad Ali changed history and inspired countless people when he refused to serve in the Vietnam War, citing his religion (Islam) as the basis for his protest. He nearly lost his entire career, and was even stripped of his heavyweight title. Think about that for a second. Ali was banned from boxing for over 40 months before his license was reinstated.
Considered the greatest boxer ever, Ali was also one of the most high-profile African American activists of the 20th century. In stark contrast to Joe Louis, Ali repeatedly spoke out against the mistreatment of African-Americans, serving as a positive role model for blacks at a time when the community needed one.
As great of a boxer as Ali was, he will always be remembered as having a passionate soul and for being an incredible humanitarian. He served as a hero and ambassador for not just African-Americans, but Muslims as well. Originally known as Cassius Clay, Ali changed his name to his Muslim name. That was one of the first times that a Muslim athlete in the United States showed pride in his religion.
His protest of Vietnam changed everything. Ali may have had a very aggressive way of doing things, but credit where credit is due: We still talk about it today, and likely will whenever we discuss athlete protests.