Cassius Clay refuses draft and loses title

Muhammad Ali, also known as Cassius Clay, refused to take the oath of induction into the army, citing his status as an ordained minister and claiming racial discrimination by the Houston draft board. As a result, he was stripped of his boxing title by the World Boxing Association and faced federal prosecution, with potential penalties including a five-year prison sentence and a $10,000 fine. Martin Luther King later praised Ali for his courage in standing up for his beliefs.

What was Muhammad Ali's reason for refusing to join the army?

• He was against violence.

• He was not physically fit.

• He claimed to be an ordained minister.

• He wanted to focus on his boxing career.

What immediate action was taken against Ali after his refusal?

• He was imprisoned.

• He was fined $10,000.

• He was stripped of his boxing title.

• He was banned from traveling.

What accusation did Ali make against the Houston draft board?

• Incompetence

• Racial discrimination

• Favoritism

• Corruption

What were the potential legal consequences Ali faced for his actions?

• A lifetime ban from boxing

• A five-year prison sentence and a $10,000 fine

• Deportation

• Community service

Who publicly supported Ali's decision and praised his courage?

• Rosa Parks

• John F. Kennedy

• Martin Luther King

• Malcolm X