Jackie Robinson is an American baseball player. He was the first African-American to feature in the Major League Baseball, breaking the colour line.
Every 15th of April is marked in his honor and Contribution to the American Baseball game as a black.
Early Life and Jackie Robinson Biography
Jack Roosevelt Robinson was Born on January 31, 1919, in Cairo, Georgia, he broke the baseball color barrier when he debuted with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947. Robinson played as an infielder and outfielder for the Dodgers from 1947 through 1956. Despite facing repeated threats and abuse from fans and opponents, he had a decade-long Hall of Fame career. Beyond baseball, Robinson was a vocal civil rights activist, serving on the board of the NAACP and advocating for greater racial integration in sports. He passed away in 1972 at the age of 53. MLB retired Robinson’s jersey, No. 42, in 1997, and the league celebrates his legacy annually on Jackie Robinson Day.
Jackie Robinson Day
Jackie Robinson Day is observed annually on April 15 in Major League Baseball (MLB) to commemorate and honor the day when Jackie Robinson made his major league debut. On this day, all players, coaches, managers, and umpires wear Robinson’s uniform number, 42. It marks the anniversary of Robinson breaking the baseball color barrier in 1947, becoming the first black major league baseball player of the modern era. His legacy continues to inspire and promote equality in sports and beyond.
Wife and Children
Jackie Robinson was married to Rachel Isum, whom he met at the University of California in 1946. The couple had three children:
– Jackie Robinson Jr.
– Sharon Robinson
– David Robinson.
Career Achievements
Breaking the Color Barrier
– On April 15, 1947, Robinson broke the decades-old “color line” of MLB when he appeared on the field for the National League Brooklyn Dodgers.
– His debut heralded the end of racial segregation in professional baseball that had relegated black players to the Negro leagues since the 1880s.
MLB Career Highlights
– Rookie of the Year Award (1947): Robinson won the inaugural Rookie of the Year Award.
– All-Star Selections (1949–1954): He was an All-Star for six consecutive seasons.
– NL Most Valuable Player (1949): Robinson received this prestigious award—the first black player to be honored.
– Batting Champion (1949): He led the National League in batting average.
– World Series Champion (1955): Robinson played a key role in the Dodgers’ World Series victory.
Legacy and Impact
– Robinson’s courage and resilience paved the way for other black athletes.
– His induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1962 solidified his place in history.
Robinson’s contributions extended beyond the baseball diamond, as he became a symbol of progress and equality.