Origins & Early Life

Richard Claxton Gregory (October 12, 1932 – August 19, 2017) was an American comedian, actor, writer, left-wing activist and social critic. He became popular among the African-American communities in the southern United States with his "no-holds-barred" sets, poking fun at the bigotry and racism in the United States. In 1961, he became a staple in the comedy clubs, appeared on television, and released comedy record albums. Gregory was at the forefront of political activism in the 1960s, when he protested against the Vietnam War and racial injustice, and advocated for animal rights.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

He was arrested multiple times and went on many hunger strikes. He later became a speaker and author, with his autobiography selling more than a million copies. Gregory was born in St. Louis, Missouri, the son of Lucille, a house cleaner, and Presley Gregory. At Sumner High School, he was aided by teachers, among them Warren St.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

James; he also excelled at running, winning the state cross-country championship in 1950. Gregory earned a track scholarship to Southern Illinois University (SIU), where he set school records as a half-miler and miler. He was named the university's outstanding student...

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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• Adam West — Contemporary (Died in 2017) (2017): American actor best known for portraying Batman in the 1960s and extensive voice work.
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• Alexei Abrikosov (physicist) — Contemporary (Died in 2017) (2017): Pioneering theoretical physicist known for low-temperature condensed matter physics.
• Aleister Crowley — Shared historical date (10-12 · Born) (1875): Founder of Thelema, a major occultist, poet, and ceremonial magician.
• Anatole France — Shared historical date (10-12 · Died) (1924): Master French writer, poet, and journalist celebrated for irony and style.
• Andrea Palladio — Shared historical date (08-19 · Died) (1580): Master Renaissance architect whose villas defined the Palladian style.
• Anthony Muñoz — Shared historical date (08-19 · Born) (1958): Legendary offensive tackle who spent his entire NFL career with the Cincinnati Bengals.
• 1932 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1932
• October 12 (10-12) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on October 12
• 2017 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 2017
• August 19 (08-19) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on August 19