Billy Graham was an influential American Baptist evangelist and minister who gained global prominence during the mid-to-late 20th century. Born in 1918 in Charlotte, North Carolina, he became known for his massive evangelistic crusades, which utilized radio and television to reach vast audiences. Over a career spanning six decades, he preached in more than 185 countries, often filling large stadiums with live sermons. Beyond his religious work, he was a significant figure in American public life, maintaining close relationships with numerous U.S. presidents and advocating for racial integration within his ministry.