Full Name and Common Aliases

Rubin "Hurricane" Carter was a boxer, social activist, and songwriter whose full name is Rubin Benjamin Carter.

Birth and Death Dates

Born on May 6, 1937, in Clifton, New Jersey. He passed away on April 20, 2014, at the age of 76.

Nationality and Profession(s)

Carter was an American boxer and songwriter who became a prominent figure in the civil rights movement.

Early Life and Background

Rubin Carter grew up in Paterson, New Jersey, in a working-class family. His father was a steelworker, and his mother was a homemaker. As a child, Rubin faced racial segregation and witnessed poverty firsthand. He began boxing at the age of 12 to earn money for his family.

Major Accomplishments

Carter's boxing career spanned over two decades, during which he earned a reputation as a formidable middleweight contender. He won the light-middleweight title in 1964 but lost it six months later due to an injury. In the same year, he was wrongly accused of murdering three white people and sentenced to life imprisonment.

Notable Works or Actions

In prison, Carter wrote several songs, including "The Hurricane," which became a hit for Stevie Wonder. He also co-authored his autobiography, _The Sixteenth Round_, with Ken Williams. The book detailed his experiences in prison and his fight against racial injustice.

Impact and Legacy

Carter's wrongful conviction and subsequent imprisonment sparked widespread outrage and protests. His case drew attention to the injustices faced by African Americans during the 1960s. After serving nearly two decades, Carter was finally acquitted of the crimes in 1986. He continued to advocate for human rights until his passing.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Rubin Carter is widely remembered and quoted due to his unwavering dedication to social justice. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of fighting against racial inequality and injustice.