In pictures: Ali awarded Liberty Medal

As he receives the prestigious humanitarian honor, we take a photographic look back at the life of 'The Greatest.'

By HLNtv.com Staff

updated 10:38 AM EDT, Fri September 14, 2012

Thursday night, Muhammad Ali was awarded the Liberty Medal, which recognizes champions of freedom.

The man born Cassius Clay was honored by the National Constitution Center for being "an outspoken fighter for religious and civil rights," an "ambassador for peace and justice worldwide," and a "tireless humanitarian and philanthropist."

Previous winners of the award include former political luminaries Mikhail Gorbachev, Nelson Mandela, and Lech Welesa.

Take a look back at some of the most striking images from Ali's illustrious life.

Our partners:

Join the conversation...

HLNtv.com welcomes a lively and courteous discussion as long as you follow the Rules of Conduct set forth in our Terms of Service. Comments are not pre-screened before they post. You agree that anything you post may be used, along with your name and profile picture, in accordance with our Privacy Policy and the license you have granted pursuant to our Terms of Service.