Louis developed an interest in boxing as a teenager while spending time at the Brewster Recreation Center.

He fought as an amateur for several years before turning professional at the age of 20, quitting his assembly line job.

Louis had a 17-year boxing career with an impressive 66-3 record, including 52 knockouts.

His bouts carried political significance, particularly before World War II.

• He defeated Italian champion Primo Carnera.

• Suffered his first professional loss to German "superman" Max Schmeling in 1936.

• In 1937, Louis became World Heavyweight Champion after defeating Jim Braddock.

• In 1938, he won a highly anticipated rematch against Schmeling, knocking him out in just two minutes and four seconds, becoming a national hero.

Louis enlisted in the U.S. Army after the Attack on Pearl Harbor.

He was placed in the Special Services Division, performing boxing demonstrations, helping drive enlistment of African American soldiers, and boosting morale.

After defending his champion title for 12 years, Louis retired in March 1949.

Financial troubles with the IRS forced him back into the ring.

He won eight more professional fights before suffering his third career loss to the undefeated Rocky Marciano, leading to his permanent retirement.

Joe Louis died in 1981 at the age of 66 in Las Vegas, Nevada, and was buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

Posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 1982.

Detroit honored his legacy with several tributes:

• The former Joe Louis Arena.

• The Joe Louis Greenway.

• A statue in the lobby of the TCF Center (formerly Cobo Hall).

• The "Monument to Joe Louis," or "The Fist," a bronze sculpture by Robert Graham at the intersection of Woodward and Jefferson Avenues.

Nicknamed the “Brown Bomber,” Louis dominated prizefighting and challenged America's segregationist policies and attitudes.

His achievements in the ring and his dignified character opened doors for future generations of black athletes.