Jackie Robinson Breaks Baseball's Color Line
April 15th, 1947
April 15th, 1947
How Long Ago?
77 years, 11 months ago
Location
Brooklyn, New York, USA
Category
Sports & Recreation
People
- Jackie Robinson
- Branch Rickey
- Walter O'Malley
- Pee Wee Reese
Links & References
Tags
Jackie Robinson Breaks Baseball's Color Line
Jackie Robinson made his Major League Baseball debut for the Brooklyn Dodgers, facing the Boston Braves at Ebbets Field in Brooklyn. This monumental moment marked the end of racial segregation in professional baseball, as Robinson became the first African American player in the modern era. He took to the field wearing the number 42, signifying hope for equality and social change in sports. His presence challenged the long-standing norms of the game, opening the door for future generations of players.
Jackie Robinson wore number 42 for the Dodgers.
Robinson faced both support and hostility during debut.
He became the first African American MLB player.
Robinson's debut helped integrate Major League Baseball.
What Happened?
Jackie Robinson, whose full name is Jack Roosevelt Robinson, debuted as a first baseman for the Brooklyn Dodgers on April 15, 1947, against the Boston Braves at Ebbets Field in Brooklyn, New York. This groundbreaking event shattered Major League Baseball's unwritten rule of racial segregation, which had persisted since the late 1800s. Robinson, signed by Dodgers' president Branch Rickey, was chosen for his exceptional baseball skills and his ability to endure the intense scrutiny and prejudice he would face as the first Black player in modern MLB history. On this historic day, Robinson stepped onto the field with courage and poise, hoping not only to succeed in the sport he loved but also to pave the way for future generations of African American athletes. His debut was met with both support and hostility; while many fans and players celebrated his talent, others protested his presence in the league.Robinson's impact on baseball extended far beyond the diamond. He finished his inaugural season with a batting average of .297, leading the Dodgers to the National League pennant and winning the Rookie of the Year Award. His on-field accomplishments demonstrated that talent knows no race. In response to Robinson's success, other teams began to integrate their rosters, eventually leading to the inclusion of many African American players in Major League Baseball. Robinson's legacy also contributed to the larger Civil Rights Movement in the United States, as he became a symbol of hope and triumph over racial adversity, inspiring others to challenge segregation in various aspects of American life.
Why Does it Matter?
Jackie Robinson's debut is a significant milestone in sports and civil rights. It challenged the systemic racism that existed in baseball and society at large, leading to significant shifts in public perception. His courage and determination not only transformed baseball but also inspired athletes and activists across the nation to fight for equality, making this moment a cornerstone in the struggle against racial segregation.
Discover More Historic Events from April 15th
Mass Shooting at FedEx Ground Facility
A mass shooting at a FedEx Ground facility in Indianapolis resulted in the deaths of nine individuals and injuries to seven others. The shooter, identified as Brandon Hole, opened fire inside the facility late at night, causing chaos among employees. The shooting occurred during a shift change, and many were in the parking lot and inside the building when the attack began. Authorities later confirmed that the suspect died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Continue ReadingNotre-Dame de Paris consumed by fire
A massive fire engulfed the Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral, causing significant damage to its structure and iconic spire. Firefighters battled the flames throughout the night, and the blaze was eventually brought under control, but not before the cathedral's roof collapsed. Millions watched in horror as the historical landmark, an emblem of French cultural heritage, was severely impacted.
Continue ReadingMassacre of Civilians in South Sudan
In a devastating incident during the South Sudanese Civil War, at least 200 civilians were killed while seeking sanctuary in various locations including churches and hospitals. The attack was marked by extreme violence and left the local population in fear. This tragic event highlighted the precariousness of civilian safety amid ongoing conflict. The perpetrators were reportedly affiliated with rival factions, showcasing the deep divisions causing the civil unrest.
Continue ReadingBombing at Boston Marathon Finish Line
Two explosive devices detonated near the finish line of the Boston Marathon, resulting in the deaths of three individuals and injuring 281 others. The bombs were placed in close proximity to one another along the race route, striking spectators and participants alike. This incident occurred amid the festivities of one of the world’s most famous marathons, prompting immediate emergency responses and drawing significant media attention.
Continue ReadingWave of Bombings in Iraq Claims 75 Lives
On April 15, 2013, a series of bombings shattered Iraq, resulting in the deaths of at least 75 individuals. The coordinated attacks targeted various locations, including markets and security forces, reflecting the ongoing sectarian violence in the country. Major cities, like Baghdad, were particularly hit hard, showcasing the resurgence of extremist groups. The motive behind these attacks appeared to be a continuation of tensions during a pivotal period of unrest, underscoring the fragile state of security in Iraq.
Continue ReadingAir China Flight 129 crashes near Busan
Air China Flight 129, a scheduled passenger flight from Beijing to Busan, South Korea, crashed while attempting to land at Gimhae International Airport. The accident resulted in the deaths of 129 people, making it one of the deadliest aviation disasters in South Korean history. The crash occurred due to a combination of poor weather conditions and navigational errors. The aircraft misidentified its altitude, leading to a deviation from the intended flight path and a subsequent crash into a hill near the airport.
Continue Reading