Louis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong was born to Mary Albert and William Armstrong in the impoverished neighborhood of New Orleans known as the Battlefield. His father abandoned the family shortly after his birth.

Louis Armstrong begins his formal education at the Fisk School for Boys, a school for African American children in New Orleans. His time there is short-lived due to financial constraints and family responsibilities.

On New Year's Eve, Armstrong is arrested for firing a gun into the air during a celebration. He is sent to the Colored Waif's Home for Boys, where he receives musical training and discipline.

While at the Colored Waif's Home, Armstrong joins the band and begins to learn to play the cornet, which becomes his primary instrument. He receives mentoring from the home's band director, Peter Davis.

After leaving the Colored Waif's Home, Armstrong joins King Oliver's Creole Jazz Band, one of the most influential jazz groups of the time. This marks the beginning of his professional career in music.

Armstrong moves to Chicago to join King Oliver's band, where he gains national recognition for his innovative playing style and becomes a key figure in the jazz scene.

Armstrong forms his own groups, the Hot Five and the Hot Seven, and records some of his most influential and innovative jazz recordings, including 'West End Blues' and 'Heebie Jeebies.'

Armstrong achieves mainstream success by performing in the Broadway revue 'Hot Chocolates,' where he introduces the song 'Ain't Misbehavin',' which becomes a hit and further cements his reputation as a jazz icon.

Armstrong tours Europe, performing in countries such as England, France, and the Netherlands. This international exposure helps to spread the popularity of jazz and his own fame.

Armstrong releases the album 'Louis Armstrong and His All-Stars in Europe,' which includes live recordings from his European tour. The album is well-received and further solidifies his international reputation.

Louis Armstrong dies in his sleep at his home in Corona, Queens, New York City. He is mourned by fans around the world and remembered as one of the most influential figures in jazz history.