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American Scandal
Muhammad Ali vs. The Draft | What’s My Name? | 2
Feb 25, 2025
Oscar Smith, an attorney with the Department of Justice, offers insight into the tumultuous legal battle of Muhammad Ali against the draft during the Vietnam War. He discusses Ali's brave refusal to serve, grounded in his religious beliefs, despite facing severe backlash and losing his title. The conversation highlights the societal pressures and the internal conflict within the legal system regarding Ali's exemption. Smith also delves into the emotional challenges Ali faced, including tensions with the Nation of Islam and the repercussions on his personal life.
40:13
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Quick takeaways
- Muhammad Ali's refusal to serve in the Vietnam War exemplified his commitment to religious beliefs despite facing legal and public backlash.
- The trial highlighted racial bias in the draft process, as Ali's celebrity status complicated perceptions of his conscientious objection claims.
Deep dives
The Draft Deferment Case
In November 1966, Attorney Oscar Smith reviews the case of Muhammad Ali, who is seeking a draft deferment as a conscientious objector. Despite being rejected by a local draft board, Ali's claim hinges on his status as a minister of the Nation of Islam, which professes a belief in non-violence. Smith grapples with concerns over the legitimacy of Ali's motives, as his declaration of conscientious objection emerged only after facing the draft. Nonetheless, after extensive witness testimony supporting his sincerity, Smith ultimately decides to recommend that Ali be denied the deferment, believing he should be treated like any other draftee due to his fame.
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