Jackie Robinson Research Paper

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Jack Roosevelt Robinson was born on January 31, 1919 in Cairo, Georgia. That historic day would eventually change the history of the game of baseball. As a young child, Jackie grew up in the ancestral home of his forefathers. When Jackie was just six months old, his father, Jerry, went to Texas to seek a better fortune. He promised his family he would send for them, but never did. This left Jackie’s mother, Mallie Robinson to raise 5 growing children on her own. Because they were the only African American family on their block, they were often criticized and scorned. Jackie had three brothers named Edgar, Frank and Mack, and a sister named Willa Mae Robinson. When Jackie was 16 months old, he and his family moved to Pasadena, California. …show more content…

He continued his education at Washington Middle School, and then later went on to John Muir High School. After graduating, Robinson went to Pasadena City College to start his college career. Later on he transferred to UCLA. Jackie excelled in many sports. He lettered in four sports, baseball, football, basketball, and track. He was the first in UCLA history to ever do so. Jackie also met his future wife at UCLA. Rachel Issum was Jackie’s soul mate. They were married on February 10, 1946. After leaving college, Jackie was drafted into the United States Army and was asked to serve in Fort Riley, Kansas. Soon after, Jackie was commissioned a 2nd lieutenant and then was reassigned to Fort Hood, Texas. He then joined the 761st "Black Panthers" Tank Battalion. Robinson did not get to see combat because he refused to move to the back after sitting next to his friend, who was a white lady. The driver told Jackie to move to the back but Jackie refused, and was kicked out of the Army. After his time in the Army, Jackie decided to focus on baseball. He tried out for the Negro Leagues and played for the Kansas City Monarchs. Later on, Jackie tried out for the Red Sox, but not one person showed up for the …show more content…

Some of Jackie’s teammates tried to make a petition that said they would quit if Jackie was allowed to play. Many of his team members hated playing with Jackie, but were willing if he had talent. Many people threatened to harm him or his family, which only made matters worse. Despite all of this, Jackie was soon one of the best on his team. Jackie led his team to six pennants in his ten seasons. He also received many awards. He was given the Rookie of the Year Award, National League’s Most Valuable Player, and many more. He was also voted into the Hall of Fame in 1962. Jackie ended his baseball career with 273 doubles, 54 triples, and 137 home runs. He also stole 197 bases and had 734

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