Jackie Robinson

Definition

Jackie Robinson was the first African American to play in Major League Baseball (MLB) in the modern era, breaking the color barrier on April 15, 1947, with the Brooklyn Dodgers. His groundbreaking role not only changed the landscape of sports but also played a significant part in the civil rights movement, making him a symbol of social justice and equality in America.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jackie Robinson won the inaugural Rookie of the Year award in 1947, showcasing his exceptional talent as a player right from the start.
2. Throughout his career, Robinson faced intense racial hostility from fans and opposing players but maintained composure and professionalism, which was pivotal in gaining acceptance for African Americans in sports.
3. Robinson was not only an outstanding baseball player, but he also became an activist, advocating for civil rights and social change during and after his baseball career.
4. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1962, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players in baseball history.
5. April 15 is celebrated annually as Jackie Robinson Day across MLB, where all players wear his jersey number 42 to honor his contributions to the sport and society.

Review Questions

• How did Jackie Robinson's entrance into Major League Baseball influence the perception of race in sports?
  • Jackie Robinson's entrance into Major League Baseball marked a significant shift in how race was perceived within sports. By successfully playing at a high level while enduring racial prejudice, he challenged stereotypes about African American athletes. His success paved the way for more African Americans to enter professional sports, helping to gradually change public attitudes towards race and equality in athletics.
• What were some of the challenges Jackie Robinson faced during his career, and how did he overcome them?
  • Jackie Robinson faced numerous challenges during his career, including threats from fans and opposing players, as well as systemic racism within the sport. He overcame these obstacles through remarkable resilience and an unwavering commitment to excellence. By maintaining his focus on performance and conduct on the field, he garnered respect from teammates and opponents alike, ultimately becoming a catalyst for change in MLB.
• Evaluate Jackie Robinson's impact on both sports and society as a whole, considering his contributions beyond baseball.
  • Jackie Robinson's impact extended far beyond baseball; he became a symbol of progress in the fight for civil rights and social justice. His courage in breaking the color barrier inspired countless individuals and movements advocating for equality. Post-retirement, he continued to speak out against racial injustice, using his platform to advocate for civil rights and support various social causes. This dual legacy of athletic excellence and activism highlights how Robinson transformed both the sporting world and broader American society.

Related terms

Civil Rights Movement: A social and political movement aimed at ending racial discrimination and promoting equal rights for African Americans, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s.

Brooklyn Dodgers: The Major League Baseball team that Jackie Robinson played for when he broke the color barrier, known for its strong connection to Brooklyn and its significant role in baseball history.

Integration: The process of bringing together people of different racial and ethnic backgrounds, especially in the context of ending segregation in sports and other areas of society.