When Was Jackie Robinson Born?
Jackie Robinson was born on January 31, 1919. Known as a remarkable trailblazer, he is celebrated for breaking Major League Baseball’s color barrier in 1947, playing for the Brooklyn Dodgers. Robinson’s entry into the league was more than a sports milestone; it was a robust, courageous stand against racial segregation in America. In addition to his groundbreaking career in baseball, Robinson was an activist and a leader off the field, fighting for civil rights and equality throughout his life. This article explores Robinson’s early years, critical life events, and his profound impact on sports and society.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts About Jackie Robinson
| Name: | Jack Roosevelt Robinson |
| Relationship Status: | Married |
| Nick Name: | Jackie |
| Date of Birth: | January 31, 1919 |
| Age: | Died at age 53 |
| Height: | 5′ 11″ |
| Net Worth: | $10 million |
| Occupation: | Baseball Player | Civil Rights Activist | Athlete |
| Citizenship: | United State |
| Death Date: | October 24, 1972 |
Early Life and Joining the Army
After graduating from high school, Robinson enrolled at Pasadena Junior College in 1937. He excelled at football, basketball, track, and baseball. But with America’s entry into World War II, Robinson was drafted into the Army in 1942. He served as a second lieutenant in the Army before being honorably discharged in 1944 after refusing to move to the back of an unsegregated bus.
Playing Baseball in the Negro Leagues
When Robinson returned from the war, he played baseball for the Kansas City Monarchs of the Negro American League. He was scouted by the Brooklyn Dodgers’ general manager Branch Rickey, who was looking for a Black player to integrate baseball. Rickey signed Robinson to the Dodgers’ farm club, the Montreal Royals, in 1945.
Breaking Baseball’s Color Barrier
On April 15, 1947, Robinson made his Major League debut with the Brooklyn Dodgers, breaking the decades-long exclusion of African American players. He endured racist taunts, hate mail, and death threats with stoic courage during his rookie year. Robinson had an exceptional 10-year MLB career, winning Rookie of the Year in 1947 and the National League MVP award in 1949. He was instrumental in the Dodgers winning six pennants and a World Series championship in 1955.
Legacy and Awards
Robinson’s bravery and athletic achievements have made him an American icon. His number 42 jersey has been retired across all MLB teams. He was the first athlete in any major sport to have his number retired. Some of Robinson’s significant awards and honors include:
- Rookie of the Year (1947)
- National League MVP (1949)
- World Series Champion (1955)
- Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame (1962)
- Presidential Medal of Freedom (Posthumously in 1984)
- Congressional Gold Medal (Posthumously in 2003)
Robinson is remembered not just for his baseball skills but, more importantly, for the dignity and courage he faced racism in baseball. His contribution went beyond the sports field in influencing civil rights, American business, and the political arena.
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Related FAQs About Jackie Robinson
Conclusion:
Jackie Robinson was more than a baseball player; he symbolized courage and resilience in the face of deep-seated prejudice. His legacy is a reminder of the work done to advance civil rights and the career that remains. In breaking the color barrier in Major League Baseball, Robinson changed the game and played a significant role in challenging the status quo of American society during his time.
