1. Racism and Jackie Robinson

2. Racism: Definition
Racism is the belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race. People with racist beliefs might hate certain groups of people according to their racial groups.

3. Baseball-Segregation
Negro leagues due to Jim Crow legislation
Shoddy conditions
No fine ballparks
Unreliable travel arrangement
But…..lots of talent!!!!
Usually won all-star games against white players

4. Branch Rickey
General Manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers (now the LA Dodgers)
Wanted to make baseball the national pastime for all Americans
Needed to find a great African-American player who was also a great person

5. Jackie Roosevelt Robinson-great choice
Signs with Rickey to play for Brooklyn Dodgers
UCLA graduate and ex-Army officer
Some players refused to play on a team with a black man
Rickey traded them

6. April 15, 1947-the barrier is down
Played first game
0 for 4 and did not do much better for the rest of the week
Despite verbal and physical abuse (other players spiking him), his bat came alive

7. First Season—already a stand-out!
Stolen bases: first in league
Tied for team lead in homers
Sporting News “Rookie of the Year”
Dodgers win National League title
Attendance soared!

8. “A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.”