John Lennon was born in 1940 in Liverpool, England. He was raised by his aunt and uncle after his parents separated when he was young. Lennon was a founding member and singer of the Beatles, writing songs with Paul McCartney that reflected his personal and philosophical views. After the Beatles broke up in 1970, Lennon had a successful solo career and released albums with anti-war, pro-peace messages. However, his life was tragically cut short in 1980 when he was shot and killed in New York City at age 40.