The Role of Race and Ethnicity in American Sport Changes from the 1930’s to the 1950’s. Between the 1930’s and 1950’s, race and ethnicity within American sports experienced shifts and adjustments. Those changes could be attributed to a few extremely talented individuals who seemed to push through the status quo. There were a good handful of skilled athletes that helped push past the existing sentiments of the time, three of whom were Hank Greenberg, Joe DiMaggio, and Jackie Robinson. Each one of them represents different aspects of racial and ethnic experiences, while beating the status quo, at least within the athletic environment. Hank Greenberg, the infamous first baseman for the Detroit Tigers, emerged during a time of significant anti-Semitic …show more content…
He became an American idealist, embodying the American Dream. Still, DiMaggio always remained aware of his heritage, often seeking to represent Italian Americans positively. As time moved on and these athletes broke through the racial and ethnic stereotypes, the challenges of humanity and separation still continued, particularly for those of color. Jackie Robinson, an African American player, shattered the color barrier that had relegated Black athletes to the Negro Leagues for decades. His signing with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947 was not just significant for baseball, but also for the entire landscape of American culture. Robinson's courage transformed the way race was discussed in sports. Facing rampant racism and hostility from both fans and players, Robinson exemplified resilience and strength. Some things Jackie had to endure were not having hotels available or eating facilities for blacks as they traveled from diamond to diamond. (Robinson, 1972). As well as pure segregation of blacks only being allowed to play on “All Black” teams. The pressure to succeed was immense, as he carried not only his own aspirations but also the hopes of millions of African Americans who longed for equality and