Contents
Jackie Robinson is a name etched in history, not just for his outstanding abilities on the baseball field, but for his courage and determination in breaking Major League Baseball’s color barrier. Born on January 31, 1919, in Cairo, Georgia, Robinson grew up to become a symbol of resilience and strength, using his talents to challenge and change the status quo. In this article, we delve into the life of Jackie Robinson, exploring his biography, family, net worth, and more.
Table: Key Highlights of Jackie Robinson’s Life
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1919 | Born in Cairo, Georgia |
| 1947 | Broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball |
| 1949 | Won the National League MVP Award |
| 1950 | Appeared in the film “The Jackie Robinson Story” |
| 1956 | Retired from professional baseball |
| 1962 | Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame |
| 1972 | Passed away at the age of 53 |
| 1997 | MLB retired his jersey number 42 across all teams |
Early Life and Family Background
Jack Roosevelt Robinson was the youngest of five children. His father left the family shortly after he was born, and his mother, Mallie Robinson, worked various jobs to support the family. Despite the challenges, Robinson excelled in multiple sports during his high school years and went on to attend Pasadena Junior College and UCLA, where he became the university’s first athlete to win varsity letters in four sports.
Baseball Career and Achievements
In 1947, Robinson broke the color barrier in baseball when he started his first game for the Brooklyn Dodgers, becoming the first African American to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era. Over his 10-year career, Robinson achieved a .311 batting average, was selected to six All-Star Games, and helped lead the Dodgers to a World Series Championship in 1955. His impact on the game and society was immeasurable, paving the way for future generations of African American athletes.
Personal Life: Wife and Family
Robinson married Rachel Isum in 1946, and the couple had three children together. Jackie and Rachel’s partnership was strong, with Rachel playing a pivotal role in supporting Jackie throughout his career and civil rights advocacy. The Robinson family was known for their closeness and resilience in the face of adversity.
Net Worth and Financial Aspects
At the time of his death in 1972, Jackie Robinson’s net worth was estimated to be around $6 million. After retiring from baseball, Robinson embarked on a successful business career, becoming the first black television analyst in MLB and the first black vice president of a major American corporation. He also founded the Jackie Robinson Construction Company, aimed at building housing for families with low incomes.
Social Impact and Legacy
Robinson used his platform to advocate for civil rights and social change, becoming a prominent figure in the movement for equality. His legacy continues to live on, not just in baseball, but in the broader context of American history as a fighter for justice and equality.
FAQs About Jackie Robinson
- When and where was Jackie Robinson born?
- January 31, 1919, in Cairo, Georgia.
- What was Jackie Robinson’s impact on baseball?
- He broke the color barrier, becoming the first African American to play in MLB in the modern era.
- How long did Jackie Robinson play in MLB?
- 10 seasons, all with the Brooklyn Dodgers.
- Which team did Jackie Robinson play for?
- The Brooklyn Dodgers.
- Did Jackie Robinson win any awards during his career?
- Yes, including the National League MVP Award in 1949 and Rookie of the Year in 1947.
- Who was Jackie Robinson’s wife?
- Rachel Isum.
- How many children did Jackie Robinson have?
- Three children.
- When did Jackie Robinson pass away?
- October 24, 1972.
- What is Jackie Robinson’s legacy?
- A trailblazer in baseball and a civil rights advocate.
- Is there a day dedicated to Jackie Robinson in MLB?
- Yes, April 15 is celebrated as Jackie Robinson Day in MLB.
- What was Jackie Robinson’s career batting average?
- .311.
- Was Jackie Robinson inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame?
- Yes, in 1962.
- What did Jackie Robinson do after retiring from baseball?
- He became a businessman and civil rights advocate.
- How has MLB honored Jackie Robinson?
- His jersey number 42 has been retired across all MLB teams.
- What challenges did Jackie Robinson face when he joined MLB?
- He faced intense racism and discrimination but persevered to pave the way for future generations of African-American athletes.
