Jackie Robinson- 90th Birthday

Jack Roosevelt Robinson, athlete and business executive, first black to enter professional major league baseball was born ninety years ago January 31, 1919. Jackie Robinson’s first season is discussed in Jonathan Eig’s book “Opening Day”, recalling the events of 1947 when under intense media and public scrutiny, Robinson made history.


This account of the inaugural season includes his experiences (good and bad) with fellow players and fans throughout the National League. Jackie had a key role in leading the Dodgers to the World Series at the season’s end, while also winning the first-ever Rookie of the Year award for his stellar play. He proved that a black man could combine courage with skills and earn respect on his own terms. Check our display of books on Jackie Robinson and our web page for a list of books on Jackie Robinson and the integration of baseball.