Being an African-American and in Georgia in the early 1900’s, the adversity Jackie Robinson faced was common and expected. Blacks were segregated for almost everything and often had poor conditions compared to whites just because of their skin color. Jackie Robinson's legacy began when he was born on January 31, 1919 in Cairo, Georgia. Jackie was an outstanding athlete ever since he was a child. His college of choice was the University of California, Los Angeles where he excelled in many athletic activities. In college he played football, basketball, baseball, and track. His athleticism helped to become the first African-American to play in Major League Baseball. Jackie Robinson is an inspiration and, at the time, a step forward in the fight …show more content…
“Jackie Robinson's greatest contribution to the game was his courage in breaking the color line. Beyond that, however, he was one of the most exciting players ever to take the field”(“Jackie Robinson”) Jackie Robinson didn’t just break the color barrier in professional baseball but he also was an outstanding baseball player. He ran the bases with speed unseen in the sport when he stole bases at a time when few players did and often bunted his way on base (“Jackie Robinson”). Jackie Robinson’s team in the Negro League wasn’t as prominent as a professional sports team today. “Blacks who wanted to play baseball could sign up on black teams only,” Robinson said. “These teams were poorly financed, and their management and promotion left much to be desired”(Loverro). Even though, at the time, things were supposed to be “separate but equal” things were often not equal and white only teams were treated way better. Before Jackie made it to the MLB he had to play on a poorly financed team. This pushed him to try and make a difference. This isn’t the only struggle black baseball players