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Today in History: George Floyd's murder ignites global protests

5/25/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man, was murdered by police officer Derek Chauvin in Minneapolis. Chauvin knelt on Floyd's neck for over nine minutes during an arrest for allegedly using a counterfeit $20 bill. Floyd's death ignited widespread protests against police brutality, with his last words, "I can't breathe," becoming a rallying cry.

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Story summary

On May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man, was murdered by police officer Derek Chauvin in Minneapolis. Chauvin knelt on Floyd's neck for over nine minutes during an arrest for allegedly using a counterfeit $20 bill. Floyd's death ignited widespread protests against police brutality, with his last words, "I can't breathe," becoming a rallying cry.