Full Name and Common Aliases

William Franklin Graham Jr., widely known as Billy Graham, was a prominent American evangelist whose influence spanned the globe. Often referred to simply as "Billy," he became a household name through his charismatic preaching and widespread evangelical missions.

Birth and Death Dates

Billy Graham was born on November 7, 1918, in Charlotte, North Carolina, and passed away on February 21, 2018, at the age of 99.

Nationality and Profession(s)

Billy Graham was an American evangelist and a leading figure in the Christian evangelical movement. His primary profession was as a preacher, but he was also an author, a spiritual advisor to numerous U.S. presidents, and a media personality.

Early Life and Background

Billy Graham was born into a devout Christian family on a dairy farm in Charlotte, North Carolina. His parents, William Franklin Graham Sr. and Morrow Coffey Graham, instilled in him the values of hard work and faith. As a teenager, Graham was initially uninterested in religion, but his life took a pivotal turn at the age of 16 when he attended a revival meeting led by evangelist Mordecai Ham. This experience profoundly impacted him, leading to his conversion to Christianity.

Graham pursued his education at the Florida Bible Institute (now Trinity College of Florida) and later graduated from Wheaton College in Illinois, where he met his future wife, Ruth Bell. His early experiences and education laid the foundation for his future as a leading evangelist.

Major Accomplishments

Billy Graham's career as an evangelist began in earnest in the late 1940s. He gained national attention with his Los Angeles Crusade in 1949, which was extended from three weeks to eight due to its overwhelming success. This event catapulted him into the national spotlight and marked the beginning of his long and influential career.

Over the next several decades, Graham conducted more than 400 crusades in 185 countries, reaching millions of people with his message of salvation through Jesus Christ. His ability to connect with audiences of all backgrounds and his use of media, including radio, television, and print, helped him reach an unprecedented number of people.

Notable Works or Actions

Billy Graham authored 33 books, many of which became bestsellers. His works, such as "Peace with God" and "How to Be Born Again," have been translated into multiple languages, further extending his reach. Graham's use of media was revolutionary for his time; he was one of the first evangelists to harness the power of television to broadcast his crusades, making him a pioneer in religious broadcasting.

Graham also founded the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) in 1950, which played a crucial role in organizing his crusades and producing his radio and television programs. The BGEA continues to be a significant force in evangelical outreach.

Impact and Legacy

Billy Graham's impact on the world of evangelical Christianity is immeasurable. He was a spiritual advisor to numerous U.S. presidents, from Harry Truman to Barack Obama, and was often called "America's Pastor." His ability to transcend political and denominational boundaries made him a unifying figure in a divided world.

Graham's message of hope and redemption resonated with millions, and his commitment to racial integration and social justice set him apart from many of his contemporaries. He was awarded numerous honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal, recognizing his contributions to American society and the world.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Billy Graham is widely quoted and remembered for his profound ability to communicate complex theological concepts in simple, relatable terms. His quotes often reflect his deep faith, compassion, and understanding of human nature. Phrases like "God has given us two hands, one to receive with and the other to give with" encapsulate his philosophy of service and generosity.

Graham's legacy endures not only through his words but also through the countless lives he touched. His messages of love, forgiveness, and hope continue to inspire people around the world, making him one of the most quoted and respected figures in modern religious history.