Jackie Robinson at a Glance
Jackie Robinson broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier and became a enduring symbol of civil progress. This profile presents verified dates, biographical context, and career highlights in a clear, factual format designed for long-term usefulness. Below you will find key moments in his life, supported by sourced detail and structured for quick understanding and deeper exploration.
Key Dates
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of birth | January 31, 1919 | Official records; biographical consensus |
| Place of birth | Cairo, Georgia, United States | Biographical sources |
| Date of death | October 24, 1972 | Official records; obituaries |
| Place of death | Stamford, Connecticut, United States | Biographical sources |
| MLB debut | April 15, 1947 | League records |
| Retired number | No. 42 league-wide (1997) | MLB policy |
| Posthumous Medal of Freedom | \nawarded 2005 | U.S. Presidential records |
Biographical Overview
Born in 1919 in Cairo, Georgia, Robinson grew up in Pasadena, California, where his athletic versatility became evident early. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II, an experience that shaped his discipline and resilience. In 1947, he joined the Brooklyn Dodgers, integrating major league baseball and enduring significant hostility with remarkable composure. Beyond baseball, he remained an active advocate for civil rights, supporting voter registration, education, and fair housing until his death in 1972, at age 53, in Stamford, Connecticut.
On-Field Achievements
Robinson’s athletic impact extended well beyond his role as a barrier breaker. He was a versatile infielder and outfielder known for aggressive base running and intelligent play. Highlights of his career include a National League MVP in 1949, a World Series championship in 1955 with the Dodgers, and consistent All-Star selections. His approach influenced subsequent generations of players and reshaped how teams evaluated talent, prioritizing skill over segregated norms.
1949 National League MVP Season (selected metrics)
- Batting average: .342
- On-base plus slugging (OPS): approximately .945
- Stolen bases: 37
- Runs batted in: 124
World Series performance (1955)
In the 1955 World Series against the Yankees, Robinson contributed on defense and at the plate during Brooklyn’s seven-game victory, a moment that added practical clarity to his reputation as a clutch performer in important games.
Civil Rights and Cultural Influence
Robinson’s significance reaches beyond statistics. His entry into organized baseball catalyzed conversations about race, fairness, and opportunity in professional sports. He worked closely with team president Branch Rickey, who emphasized both principle and pragmatism in selecting Robinson to integrate the game. After retiring from baseball, Robinson continued activism as a journalist, businessman, and advocate, lending public support to emerging civil rights initiatives and maintaining a visible presence in national debates on equality.
Legacy and Commemoration
Major League Baseball retired Robinson’s No. 42 across all teams in 1997, and he became the first professional athlete in any sport to have that honor. April 15 is observed as Jackie Robinson Day, with uniform numbers across baseball paying tribute. These measures reflect a durable commitment to recognizing his contributions while reinforcing the ongoing work toward inclusion in sports and society.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When was Jackie Robinson born? He was born on January 31, 1919.
- When did Jackie Robinson die? He died on October 24, 1972.
- How old was he at death? He was 53 years old at the time of his death.
- What team did he debut with? He debuted with the Brooklyn Dodgers on April 15, 1947.
- Why is his number retired? His No. 42 was retired league-wide to honor his barrier-breaking impact and lasting influence on civil progress.
Conclusion
Jackie Robinson’s life, anchored by the dates January 31, 1919, and October 24, 1972, represents a pivotal chapter in sports and civil history. His achievements on the field and his advocacy off it continue to inform discussions about equality, opportunity, and leadership. This verified overview is intended to serve as a clear, factual foundation for long-term understanding.