Born: Joseph Louis Barrow
Heavyweight Champion 1937-49
Joe Louis dominated the sport of boxing from the 1930's into the 1950's. He was arguably the best heavyweight champion ever and, in an era when blacks were still riding in the back of the bus, was widely respected as an individual. Fans didn't just like Louis, they loved him. He was also a hero to a generation of younger boxers , some of whom faced him in his post-championship years.
The Boxing Register