Jackie Robinson A Game Changer

What is a “Game Changer”? A game changer is one who has a dream of changing and impacting the World. Game changers are rebellious and motivated to make their dream come true. Jackie Robinson made a huge difference on society. Robinson is considered a game changer due to being the first ever African American to play Major League baseball. His love for the sport and his desire to change the view on racism created new perspectives in the game, as well as in on our society.

Jackie Robinson’s history and background shaped him into the game changer he is today. Robinson and his family struggled with segregation when he was a child: “Other neighbors signed a petition to try to force the Robinsons and Wades out of their home.” (Pederson 22) Many of

When Branch Rickey, the manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, asked Robinson to join the team, he had to make many promises and commitments: “Robinson had to promise not to react to any of the abuse people threw at him.” (Pederson 53) This is only one of the things he had to agree to. Even though there were lots of risks, he signed a contract with the Dodgers and was going to be the first African-American to play baseball in the Major Leagues. He had a very good first season and “The Dodgers went on to win the National League title.” He also was awarded a high honor of “baseball’s first Rookie of the year award.” (Pederson 72) Robinson had a very triumphant season and finished with great achievements and accomplishments, but there was many more seasons to come. This was only the beginning of a future star and game changer. After many years of baseball, “He hit .311 average and helped his club win six pennants and a world championship.” ("Robinson the Citizen." Umass. N.p., n.d. Web.) Robinson did not go a second without working hard and performing to his best ability. He strived to become a great baseball player and person. Even though Jackie Robinson faced difficulties, the outcome was

He also had an impact on the World during the Civil War: “Robinson made advancements in the cause of civil rights.” ("Jackie Robinson." Bio.com. A&E Networks Television, n.d. Web. 16 Feb. 2016.) He changed the worldview of racism when he showed people what a good person and good athlete he was. Outside of baseball, he testified discrimination and became a leader in social and political causes. One of Robinson’s coaches, “Buck O’neil calls him a ‘race man’- someone who cared about the plight of all African-Americans and not just himself.” ("Robinson the Citizen." Umass. N.p., n.d. Web.) When an African-American, like himself, was treated badly, he took up for them. He did not tolerate racism and was a man full of character and integrity. Robinson was someone others looked up to: “Other African American ballplayers found Robinson an inspiration and role model.” ("Robinson the Citizen." Umass. N.p., n.d. Web.) He opened baseball in such a way that had never been opened. He influenced many of people’s thoughts about race and was an example of a great leader. Robinson affected lots of people after breaking the color barrier in American