Born in Providence, Rhode Island. He had an elementary school education. He dropped out of school when he was eight to appear on the stage with his family. Their show was known as "The Four Cohans." He wrote his first play at age eleven. His first song was published when he was sixteen.

Married Ethelia Fowler in July 1899. She was known on the stage as Ethel Levey and joined the Cohan family act. They had one daughter and were divorced in 1907.

He married Agnes Nolan in 1907. They had three children.

Cohan was known for patriotism. This was partly based on the myth that he was born on the fourth of July. In 1917 he wrote "Over There" which became a patriotic theme during the World War. Congress authorized a gold medal to honor Cohen for that song by act of June 29, 1936. It was presented by President Roosevelt in 1940.

In his career he wrote more than 40 plays and more than 500 songs. Among the better known are "Give My Regards to Broadway," "Yankee Doodle Boy" and "You're a Grand Old Flag." Cohan died in New York City.

legal ref: Private Law 74-727, 49 Stat. 2371

bio: DAB; EAB; NCAB 15; WAB; WWWA-1