Challenges Faced by George Floyd: Obstacles and Turning Points

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped George Floyd's life and career.

George Floyd, an African-American man, died on May 25, 2020, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, after police officer Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck for over nine minutes during an arrest for allegedly using a counterfeit bill. Floyd's death sparked widespread global protests against police brutality and racial injustice, particularly against Black people. His last words, "I can't breathe," became a rallying cry for the movement. The event led to increased scrutiny of police practices and renewed calls for systemic change.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

1997: Jail Terms on Various Charges

Beginning in 1997, George Floyd served eight jail terms on various charges, including drug possession, theft, and trespass, until 2005.

1997: Conviction of Crimes

Beginning in 1997, George Floyd was convicted of multiple crimes and served eight jail terms until 2005.

2004: Drug Conviction

In 2004, George Floyd had a drug conviction.

2004: Conviction for Crack Cocaine Possession

In 2004, George Floyd was convicted of possessing half a gram of crack cocaine, based on the testimony of police officer Gerald Goines.

2005: Conviction of Crimes

Ending in 2005, George Floyd had been convicted of multiple crimes and served eight jail terms since 1997.

2005: Jail Terms on Various Charges

Ending in 2005, George Floyd had served eight jail terms on various charges, including drug possession, theft, and trespass, since 1997.

2007: Charges for Aggravated Robbery

In 2007, George Floyd faced charges for aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon after allegedly impersonating a water department worker and entering an apartment with other men to steal items.

2007: Aggravated Robbery Conviction

In 2007, George Floyd was convicted of aggravated robbery and home invasion.

2009: Sentenced to Prison

In 2009, George Floyd was sentenced to five years in prison as part of a plea deal related to the 2007 aggravated robbery charges.

January 2013: Paroled from Prison

In January 2013, George Floyd was paroled after being sentenced to five years in prison for aggravated robbery.

2013: Parole Release

In January 2013, George Floyd was paroled after serving time for aggravated robbery. Following his release, he became a mentor and posted anti-violence videos on social media.

2014: Move to Minneapolis and Rehabilitation Program

In 2014, George Floyd moved to Minneapolis to rebuild his life and completed a 90-day rehabilitation program. He then worked various jobs, including security at a homeless shelter. He also pursued a commercial driver's license but dropped out of the program.

May 2019: Detained by Minneapolis Police

In May 2019, George Floyd was detained by Minneapolis police during a traffic stop. Officers found him with pain pills, but no charges were filed after they called an ambulance out of concern for his condition.

2020: Job Loss During COVID-19 Pandemic

In 2020, George Floyd lost both of his jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

2020: Job Losses and Hospitalization

In 2020, George Floyd worked as a security guard and delivery driver, but lost the delivery job in January. In March, his personal financial situation worsened when the club closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and he was also hospitalized after overdosing on drugs. In April, he contracted COVID-19.