This year marks the 70th anniversary of the year Jackie Robinson stepped onto a major league baseball field, becoming the first African American player to participate at the professional level. Similar to the majority of American Society, Major League Baseball began as a segregated sport. The Major Leagues was specifically designated to those that where white of skin, while African-Americans were placed in negro leagues. The desegregation of baseball was a huge step for the African-American community, and some even argue it was the first step toward the fight against segregation. The popularity gained by those such as Robinson was essential to the success of the civil rights movement. In the 1940’s America was in the midst of World War II, …show more content…
Almost immediately after this was announced to the public, trouble ensued. It began in newspaper editorials, where many argued that he did not have the right to play on a major league diamond. Even some of his now teammates disagreed with the decision, and circulated petitions against him. Other teams began threatening to boycott games against the Dodgers is Robinson played. The commissioner of baseball stepped in at this point, threatening to ban anyone involved in these boycotts, quickly halting the movement. Despite this minor win for Robinson, he still faced constant threats. All around the league Robinson was taunted by fans and regularly received threats on his life. He was often unable to stay at the same hotels or even eat dinner at the same locations as his teammates. This was until Kentucky-born teammate Pee Wee Reese stood up for Robinson declaring “This is the guy, and we’re gonna win with him” (The Arrival of Jackie Robinson). Robinson received much support from his Brooklyn fans, and his presence pushed for more blacks to attend the games in …show more content…
In his first season he held a respectable .297 batting average, and posed a major threat on the base paths (Desegregation Begins with Baseball). Many rival pitchers commented on his ability to unnerve them, and effect the game while on base. His success largely contributed to the Dodgers winning the National League pennant race, and he received the Rookie of the Year honor. For Robinsons first 2 years in the majors he remained completely silent. He controlled his emotions and held back from responding against any insults or acts of racism directed toward him. By 1949, Rickey decided it was time for Robinson to begin speaking out against the injustices he bared through. As expected, Robinson angered many players, fans, and owners with his criticisms. Despite this, his success at the plate only heightened. He hit a career high .347, and was awarded with the National League’s Most Valuable Player award (Desegregation Begins with Baseball). Even in the face of adversity, he continued speaking out for what he believed throughout his