John Lennon (1940-1980) was an English singer, songwriter, and peace activist. He is best known as a co-founder of the Beatles, the most commercially successful band in the history of popular music. Born John Winston Lennon on October 9, 1940, in Liverpool, England, he formed the Beatles in 1960 with Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. Lennon's songwriting partnership with McCartney remains one of the most successful in history, producing hits like "Hey Jude," "Let It Be," and "Yesterday". After the Beatles disbanded in 1970, Lennon pursued a solo career, releasing iconic songs such as "Imagine" and "Give Peace a Chance". He was also known for his outspoken political activism and his marriage to artist Yoko Ono. Tragically, Lennon was assassinated on December 8, 1980, in New York City.