Born on the 31st day of January 1919 in Cairo, Georgia, Jack Roosevelt Robinson was more than just a baseball icon—he was a husband, father, son, and brother who dared to dream big. Here are fifteen facts that carve a peephole into the life and times of the legendary player.
First Black Player In MLB
On April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson broke an approximately 60-year-old color barrier in Major League Baseball, debuting for the Brooklyn Dodgers. The historic moment went beyond sports, becoming a turning event in the civil rights movement. Robinson faced prejudice and isolation but endured it all with remarkable dignity.
Inspired By Older Brother
Matthew Robinson, Jackie’s older brother, was influential in shaping his athletic aspirations. Matthew was a silver medallist in the 200-meter dash at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, finishing just behind Jesse Owens. His achievement inspired young Jackie to pursue athletics seriously.
A Multi-Sport Athlete
Robinson’s athletic ability extended way beyond the baseball diamond. At UCLA, he lettered in baseball, basketball, football, and track. He also excelled in tennis and showed outstanding talent. This multifaceted athleticism laid the foundation for his future success in Major League Baseball.
Rookie Of The Year
Despite the immense pressure and hostility, Robinson excelled in his first MLB season. He batted .297, led the National League in stolen bases with 29, and scored 125 runs. These impressive statistics earned him the inaugural Rookie of the Year award in 1947.
National League MVP
In 1949, just two years after his MLB entry, Robinson reached the pinnacle of individual achievement in baseball. He bagged the National League Most Valuable Player award, batting .342 with 124 RBIs and 37 stolen bases. This accomplishment earned him a place among the greats.
The Dodgers’ 1955 World Series Win
The Brooklyn Dodgers’ 1955 World Series victory over the New York Yankees was the Dodgers’ first and only World Series championship in Brooklyn. For Robinson, who had faced defeat in previous World Series appearances, despite an unremarkable season, this victory provided a fitting capstone to his career.
First MLB Player To Appear On TIME Magazine
On September 22, 1947, Robinson appeared on the cover of TIME magazine. This milestone marked the first time a Major League Baseball player had been featured on the publication’s cover. This media recognition underscored the broader cultural impact of Robinson’s breakthrough in baseball.
Served In The Military
Long before his baseball career, Jackie Robinson had been committed to equality. In 1942, he was drafted into the U.S. Army during World War II. He was a 2nd Lieutenant and, at one point, court-martialed for refusing to give up his seat in a segregated bus, though he was ultimately acquitted.
Robinson’s Hollywood Portrayal
In 1950, he portrayed himself in “The Jackie Robinson Story,” a groundbreaking film chronicling his life and career. This cinematic representation during the height of racial tensions brought Robinson’s struggles and triumphs to a broader audience and was a powerful tool for social commentary.
Hall Of Fame Induction
In 1962, during his first year of eligibility, Jackie Robinson was honored with a Baseball Hall of Fame induction. He urged the voters to consider and recognize only his athletic achievements on the field, not his role in the struggle for inclusion in the sport.
Retired Number 42
In 1997, Major League Baseball unprecedentedly retired Robinson’s number 42 across all teams. This league-wide retirement commemorated his impact on the game. Players wearing number 42 were then allowed to continue until retirement, with Mariano Rivera being the last to do so in 2013.
Jackie Robinson Day
Starting in 2004, MLB marked Jackie Robinson Day on April 15th, the anniversary of his debut in the major league. Jackie Robinson Day has become a significant event in the baseball calendar. On said day, all players, coaches, and umpires wear number 42 to honor the man and his legacy.
Congressional Gold Medal
In 2005, Jackie was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. It is the highest civilian award given by Congress, and it was given to Jackie in recognition of his contributions to baseball, the civil rights movement, and American society. The award ceremony brought together political leaders, baseball officials, and Robinson’s family.
Jackie Robinson Foundation
Established in 1973 by Robinson’s widow, Rachel, the Jackie Robinson Foundation continues Jckie’s mission of education and empowerment. The foundation provides scholarships and leadership development opportunities to minority students and has helped thousands of young people attain their educational and professional aspirations through its programs.
A Legacy in Bronze
Many statues and monuments have been created to honor Jackie Robinson, including Stealing Home, a statue outside Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. The statues often depict Robinson in action. These bronze memorials ensure that future generations will have a visual connection to the man, the player, and the legend—Jackie Roosevelt Robinson.
15 Facts About Major League Baseball Legend Jackie Robinson