Jackie Robinson: Journey to Freedom

Jackie Robinson was an American baseball player who broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball. He played for the Brooklyn Dodgers from 1947 to 1956 and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1962. Robinson's journey to the major leagues was not easy. He faced discrimination and prejudice from both fans and other players. But he persevered and became a symbol of courage and determination for African Americans everywhere.

Jackie Robinson (Journey to Freedom)

by Tony De Marco

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	17733 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	32 pages

FREE

Early Life

Jackie Robinson was born on January 31, 1919, in Cairo, Georgia. His parents were sharecroppers, and he grew up in poverty. Robinson was a talented athlete, and he excelled in baseball, football, basketball, and track. In 1937, he enrolled at UCLA, where he played baseball and football. Robinson was also a vocal advocate for civil rights, and he often spoke out against racism.

Breaking the Color Barrier

In 1945, Robinson signed a contract with the Montreal Royals, a farm team of the Brooklyn Dodgers. In 1947, he was called up to the Dodgers and became the first African American to play in Major League Baseball since the 1880s. Robinson's presence in the major leagues was met with resistance from some fans and players. He was often subjected to racial slurs and threats, but he refused to be intimidated. Robinson's courage and determination helped to pave the way for other African Americans to play in the major leagues.

Legacy

Jackie Robinson retired from baseball in 1956. He went on to become a successful businessman and civil rights activist. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1964, and in 1972, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Robinson died in 1972, but his legacy continues to live on. He is remembered as a pioneer who broke the color barrier and paved the way for other African Americans to achieve success in professional sports.

Jackie Robinson: A Timeline

* 1919: Born in Cairo, Georgia * 1937: Enrolls at UCLA * 1945: Signs with the Montreal Royals * 1947: Breaks the color barrier with the Brooklyn Dodgers * 1956: Retires from baseball * 1964: Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom * 1972: Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame * 1972: Dies at the age of 53

Jackie Robinson (Journey to Freedom)

by Tony De Marco

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	17733 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	32 pages

FREE