All about Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali was one of the greatest boxers of all time. He was born on January 17, 1942, in Louisville, Kentucky, and his real name was Cassius Clay. When he was 12 years old, his bike got stolen, and he told a police officer that he wanted to beat up the thief. The officer, who was also a boxing coach, suggested that Cassius learn to box first. That was the beginning of his amazing boxing career.

Cassius Clay worked very hard and won a gold medal in the 1960 Olympics when he was just 18. He became famous for his quick punches and his ability to predict which round he would win in. Later, he changed his name to Muhammad Ali after joining the Muslim religion.

Muhammad Ali was known for saying, "I am the greatest!" and he really was. He won many big fights and became the heavyweight champion of the world three times. Outside the ring, Ali was a hero too. He spoke out against unfair treatment of people and refused to fight in the Vietnam War because he believed it was wrong. Even though he had Parkinson's disease in his later years, he continued to inspire people with his courage and kindness. Muhammad Ali passed away on June 3, 2016, but he will always be remembered as a champion and a good person.

1. What was Muhammad Ali’s real name?
2. At what age did Muhammad Ali win an Olympic gold medal?
3. Why did Muhammad Ali refuse to fight in the Vietnam War?
4. Do you think Muhammad Ali was brave? Why or why not?
5. How do you think Muhammad Ali inspired people outside of boxing?

Symbols and Traditions

Hi there! My name is Fiona, and I am 8 years old. I want to tell you about my recent trip to Louisville. It was so much fun! One of the coolest things I did was visit a place called the Muhammad Ali Center. Muhammad Ali was a famous boxer from Louisville, and he is known as one of the greatest athletes ever.

The Muhammad Ali Center is like a museum, but it’s so much more. There were all kinds of exhibits about his life, his boxing matches, and even his work for peace and helping people. I got to see some of his boxing gloves and outfits. There was a room where I could pretend to be a boxer too, and that was super fun! I also watched some videos about his greatest fights.

One thing I learned was that Muhammad Ali was not just a great boxer, but he also cared a lot about helping other people and standing up for what is right. It made me think about how I can help others too. I really liked visiting the Muhammad Ali Center and learning about his life.

1. Who is Muhammad Ali and why is he famous?
2. What did you see at the Muhammad Ali Center?
3. Why do you think Muhammad Ali is considered one of the greatest athletes?
4. How did visiting the Muhammad Ali Center make you feel about helping others?
5. Can you think of a way you can help others in your community, just like Muhammad Ali did?

Profile of Muhammad Ali

A Timeline of Muhammad Ali to another Festival

After learning all about Muhammad Ali, your job is to create a timeline of their life. You should add all the important events in their life but you can be inventive and add some interesting things that people might like to read about. You can make it as simply as you like with pen and paper or you can be very inventive and create a 3D diorama or hanging banner. The sky's the limit - go for it!

Slideshow - Muhammad Ali
A full set of teaching plans for Muhammad Aliteaching.