How racial adversity led to the downfall of the greatest boxer of the Jim Crow era from the racial backlash, riots, arrest, and more. Jack Johnson, a revolutionary African American paved the way for many athletes of color through overcoming adversity, his success,and hardships. From being the first African American heavyweight champion to facing extreme racial hate and later being sentenced to jail, Jack Johnson was a hard worker, well rounded boxer, and inspiration to many other African American boxers.
Jack Johnson the revolutionary boxer born on March 31, 1878. The young boxer was born in Galveston Texas. He grew up there with his family in a small home. He was the son of former slave Aurthur John Johnson. He was “One of six children” (Jack
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Jack Johnson boxes his way to the heavyweight world championships. This highly anticipated fight was against opponent Tommy Burns. Tommy Burns was the reigning champion and favored winner by most gamblers. During the fight Johnson ``dominated the fight for thirteen rounds, punching the overmatched white boxer at will until police stopped the match and saved the bloody and battered Burns the indignity of being knocked out.” (Jack Johnson Biography). After being crowned the heavyweight champion of the world he went against the racial norms of being humble and respectful. At this time many African American were expected to act respectful and humble, almost staying in the shadows. Jack Johnson on the other hand “flaunted his newfound wealth, buying fast cars and throwing lavish parties''(Jack Johnson Biography).. Though many white Americans were upset by his unhumble actions they were most opposed to one of his biggest “mistakes''. Johnson publicly romanized a white female which would later single handedly ruin his boxing career and reputation. Soon after the newly crowned champion was challenged for his title. This new challenger was retired boxer JIm Jefferies. The retired ex- champion was no match for Johnson. Jack controlled the action in the ring, toying with his opponent and delivering a savage beating for fifteen rounds, until Jeffries's corner men stopped the fight.”(Jack Johnson Biography). After this clear and drastic win Johnson faced much racial backlash from white Americans. Riots began to spring up across America against the defeat of the white ex champion. Many white Americans were disappointed that an African Amercian could be so successful. Later in 1912 during his prime Johnson's “poor” actions came back around and resurfaced he was arrested and convicted against the Mann Act. Also known as the White Slave Law (Johnson Conviction