Robert Sampson
American lawyer and airlines executive who championed handicapped rights and battled muscular dystrophy
About Robert Sampson
Lived 1925 – 2006 (aged 81). Robert Sampson was an American lawyer.
Robert Sampson (March 4, 1925 – December 3, 2006) was a vice president at United Airlines. He was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy at age 5, and used a wheelchair for most of his life.
Sampson, a lawyer, was an advocate for disabled persons. He served the President's Commission on Employment of the Handicapped under five American presidents. His efforts helped lead to architectural improvements in access for disabled people, such as wheelchair ramps.
Sampson partnered with Jerry Lewis to raise money for the treatment of muscular dystrophy.
A Boeing 747-400, tail number N116UA, is named after him.
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Important facts
People in Robert Sampson's life
Named in this biography and alive at the same time
Contemporaries
People whose lives overlapped Robert Sampson's
Frequently asked questions
Who was Robert Sampson?
American lawyer and airlines executive who championed handicapped rights and battled muscular dystrophy (1925-2006)
When was Robert Sampson born?
Robert Sampson was born on 4 March 1925 in Evanston.
When did Robert Sampson die?
Robert Sampson died on 3 December 2006 in Arlington Heights.
What was Robert Sampson's occupation?
Robert Sampson was a lawyer.
What nationality was Robert Sampson?
Robert Sampson was American.
Sources & further reading
· DBpedia: Robert Sampson (disability rights activist)
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Robert Sampson. https://biography.guide/robert-sampson/
MLA: "Robert Sampson." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/robert-sampson/.
Chicago: "Robert Sampson." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/robert-sampson/.
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