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American jazz trumpeter, vocalist, and cultural icon who revolutionized jazz music. Born in New Orleans, Armstrong rose from poverty to become a globally celebrated artist. His innovative trumpet style, scat singing, and charismatic performances defined jazz from the 1920s onward. Key recordings include "West End Blues" and "What a Wonderful World."

• Arrested at age 11 for firing a gun during a New Year's Eve celebration, he was sent to the Colored Waifs' Home where he first received formal music training on the cornet.
• His mentor, King Oliver, summoned him to Chicago in 1922, launching his career. Armstrong later eclipsed Oliver's fame, causing a permanent rift.
• Overcame racial barriers: First Black jazz musician to write an autobiography (1936), star in major Hollywood films (e.g., "High Society"), and host a nationally sponsored radio show.
• Faced criticism from Black activists in the 1950s-60s for his onstage persona, though privately funded civil rights initiatives and condemned the Little Rock school crisis.
• Died of a heart attack in his sleep on July 6, 1971, after decades of health issues linked to his demanding touring schedule.