Written by: Ray Lamar Inspired by: Artist Bill Rembert
Being the first to do anything in life comes with its pros and cons; fears, doubts, and all out apprehension until you realize that being a trailblazer is what some people were born to do. Jackie Robinson broke down color barriers by becoming the first black athlete to play major League baseball in 1947. Like so many African American males, Robinson grew up in an impoverished single parent household with his hardworking mother. However, His rather misfortunate background would groom him for what his god given destiny had been determined to be for such a unique individual.
Jackie was a superb athlete, excelling at in what seemed to be every sport he found a passion or knack for. At Pasadena Junior College in Pasadena, California Jackie played four sports: Basketball, track, football, and baseball. He earned Most Valuable Player honors in 1938 in Baseball at Pasadena Community College. He would Go on to continue his education at UCLA where he would become the first athlete to letter in 4 different sports. However, times would get hard for Robinson as he was forced to quit school due to financial issues.
Post UCLA days, the US joined World War II and Jackie served as a second lieutenant from 1942 to 1944. In 1944 Robinson was arrested in Texas for refusing to give up his seat and moving to the back of the bus. Robinson’s popularity would spur outrage over this injustice and put racism under the microscope. The charges were dropped on Robinson. This situation would lead to gained positive perspective on black athletes in major league baseball and open the door for more opportunities for African Americans in baseball. Jackie was unafraid.
Editor’s Note: This article first published on January 30, 2020.