$4,063
A large sketch hand drawn by Muhammad Ali depicting his interpretation of his 1967 trial for refusing to join the United States Army after being drafted. Ali considered himself “a conscientious objector,” famously stating, “I ain’t got no quarrel with the Vietcong.” On April 28, 1967, in Houston, Ali was scheduled to be inducted into the U.S. Army. He refused, four times, to step forward when his name was called. His actions led to his arrest for violating the United States Selective Service laws. In addition, Ali’s boxing license was suspended and he was stripped of his championship titles. On June 20, 1967, Ali was found guilty and sentenced to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Ali’s lawyers appealed the case, with the appeal going all the way to the United States Supreme Court. The verdict was eventually reversed on June 28, 1971. Sketched by Ali in 1967, this is one of only a few sketches of this size Ali drew depicting his trial. Signed “Muhammad Ali” in black marker. A portion of the proceeds of the sale of this lot will be donated to The Muhammad Ali Museum and The Muhammad Ali Parkinsons Foundation. 23 1/2 by 19 1/2 inches Categories:
Auctioneer:
Juliens Auctions
Date:
2011-12-03
