The most important player in baseball history — Jackie Robinson broke MLB's colour barrier in 1947, changing American sport and society with a courage that extended far beyond any statistic.
Jackie Robinson broke Major League Baseball's colour barrier on April 15, 1947, joining the Brooklyn Dodgers — the most significant moment in American sporting history. He endured extraordinary abuse, threats and discrimination with extraordinary dignity, as directed by Dodgers executive Branch Rickey who asked him to "have the courage not to fight back." He won Rookie of the Year, MVP and six All-Star selections despite the unique pressure he faced. His number 42 is retired across all of MLB.
His number 42 is the only number retired across all of Major League Baseball — every team, forever.
Did You Know?Career Honours
- World Series Champion 1955
- NL MVP 1949
- Rookie of the Year 1947
- Number 42 retired across all MLB