Early Life and Career
George Floyd was born in Fayetteville, North Carolina, in 1973 and later moved to Houston, Texas. He worked as a truck driver and a bouncer before relocating to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he sought additional work during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Events of May 25, 2020
On May 25, 2020, George Floyd was arrested outside a deli in Minneapolis after allegedly using a counterfeit $20 bill. During the arrest, a police officer pressed his knee against Floyd’s neck and back for several minutes while Floyd was restrained on the ground.
Aftermath and Legacy
George Floyd died at the scene. His death was ruled a homicide, and the incident sparked widespread protests and calls for police reform across the United States and globally. The four officers involved were later charged and convicted on federal and state charges. For more details, see the George Floyd biography on Britannica.
