According to Maya Angelou's "Champion of the World," Joe Louis became an
icon because he changed the concept of what it meant
to be an American and for many he represented the American Dream. Similarly, Mohammed Ali achieved greatness and managed to overcome many of the obstacles facing him during this uneasy and turbulent period in American history to become such an American
icon. This paper provides an analysis and a comparison of these two individuals and what factors contributed to their success and the part they played in providing role models for American children. A summary of the research is provided in the conclusion.