Beyond the Ring: Muhammad Ali’s Mission to Baghdad, 1990

In November 1990, former three-time heavyweight boxing champion, Muhammad Ali, traveled to Baghdad, Iraq with the aim of promoting peace in the volatile Gulf region in the aftermath of Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait. Following a personal audience with Ali, Saddam released 15 hostages. Although Ali’s goal...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of sport and social issues 1999-08, Vol.23 (3), p.246-265
Main Authors: Wenn, Stephen R., Wenn, Jeffrey P.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Ali, Muhammad (1942-2016)
Athletes
Baghdad, Iraq
Conflict Resolution
Hussein, Saddam
International relations
Peace
Peace negotiations
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Summary:In November 1990, former three-time heavyweight boxing champion, Muhammad Ali, traveled to Baghdad, Iraq with the aim of promoting peace in the volatile Gulf region in the aftermath of Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait. Following a personal audience with Ali, Saddam released 15 hostages. Although Ali’s goal had been loftier, namely a peaceful resolution to the crisis, his determination and perseverance despite numerous obstacles revealed his dedication to the cause of peace. This article will discuss the Ali mission in Baghdad, its origins and its results, for the purpose of shedding light on Muhammad Ali’s growing acceptance as an unofficial ambassador for many American citizens.
ISSN:0193-7235
1552-7638
DOI:10.1177/0193723599233002