Jack Roosevelt Robinson was born on January 31, 1919, in Cairo, Georgia. The youngest of five children, Robinson was raised in relative poverty by a single mother. When he joined the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947, Robinson became the first Black athlete to play Major League Baseball in the 20th century. Robinson established himself as one of the game’s most talented and dynamic players throughout the duration of his decade-long career.

From the beginning of his career with the Dodgers, Robinson’s will was tested. Some of his new teammates objected to having an African American on their team. People in the crowds sometimes mocked Robinson, and he and his family even received threats. Despite the racial abuse, Robinson had an outstanding start with the Royals, even leading the International League. His successful year led to his promotion to join the Dodgers.

Robinson, who served on the board of the NAACP until 1967, was a vocal advocate for African American athletics, civil rights, and other social and political causes. On January 5, 1957, he announced his retirement. Following his retirement from baseball, Robinson became active in business and continued his work as an activist for social change. He worked as an executive for the Chock Full O’ Nuts coffee company and restaurant chain and helped establish the African American-owned Freedom Bank. On October 24, 1972, just nine days after the celebratory event, Jackie Robinson died in his home of a heart attack.