Jackie Robinson (January 31, 1919–October 24, 1972) was an American professional baseball player, civil rights advocate, and cultural figure whose career and legacy remain widely studied. He broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier in 1947 with the Brooklyn Dodgers, earning Rookie of the Year honors, and was later inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1962. Beyond baseball, Robinson worked as a businessman, activist, and broadcaster, advancing civil rights and economic opportunities. This profile clarifies his birth and death dates, key biographical milestones, and lasting influence with sourced facts and contextual background.
Key Dates and Verified Biographical Details
Robinson’s life and career align with major social and sports milestones in the United States. Below are core date-based facts essential for understanding his trajectory and context.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 31, 1919 | Official records and biographies |
| Date of Death | October 24, 1972 | Official death records and obituaries |
| MLB Debut | April 15, 1947 | Brooklyn Dodgers game logs |
| Rookie of the Year | 1947 | MLB award records |
| Hall of Fame Induction | 1962 | Baseball Hall of Fame archives |
| Number Retired by MLB | 42 (across all teams) | MLB policy, 1997 |
Formative Years and Early Athletics
Robinson was born in Cairo, Georgia, and raised in Pasadena, California. He was a multi-sport athlete at UCLA, competing in football, basketball, track, and baseball. After serving in the U.S. Army during World War II, he played in the Negro Leagues with the Kansas City Monarchs, where he caught the attention of Branch Rickey and the Brooklyn Dodgers organization.
Military Service and Early Challenges
Robinson’s military service shaped his resilience. He was court-martialed for refusing to move to the back of a segregated bus, was acquitted, and subsequently served as a coach in the Army. This experience informed his readiness to face intense scrutiny and hostility when entering organized baseball.
Breaking the Color Barrier in Baseball
On April 10, 1947, the Dodgers announced Robinson’s signing. He debuted on April 15, 1947, at Ebbets Field, enduring racial slurs, threats, and hostility while showcasing elite skill. His composure and performance helped shift the conversation around race in professional sports and laid groundwork for integration across leagues.
1947 Season Highlights
- NL Rookie of the Year
- Selected to the All-Star Game
- Helped lead the Dodgers to the National League pennant
Post-Baseball Career and Activism
After retiring from baseball in 1957, Robinson remained active in business and civil rights. He founded Freedom National Bank in Harlem, supported voter registration efforts, and collaborated with Martin Luther King Jr. on civil rights initiatives. He also worked as a television commentator and writer, using his platform to address social issues.
Business and Media Work
- Chaired the board of Freedom National Bank
- Wrote a syndicated newspaper column
- Commentated on baseball for ABC’s “Major League Baseball Game of the Week”
Death and Legacy
Robinson died on October 24, 1972, at age 53. His death followed complications from heart disease and diabetes. He is remembered not only for his athletic achievements but also for his role in advancing civil rights. His widow, Rachel Robinson, has continued his advocacy work, notably in education and health equity.
Commemorations and Honors
- Number 42 retired by all MLB teams in 1997
- Jackie Robinson Day established in 2004 (observed annually on April 15)
- Posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1984
- Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, 1962
Enduring Historical Relevance
Robinson’s impact extends beyond statistics. He catalyzed institutional change in sports and modeled strategies for nonviolent resistance under intense pressure. His life illustrates the intersection of personal discipline, public advocacy, and structural reform. Modern conversations about representation, equity, and leadership in athletics and beyond continue to reference his example.
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.
- What team did Jackie Robinson play for? He played for the Brooklyn Dodgers from 1947 to 1956.
- Why is Jackie Robinson’s number retired? MLB retired number 42 across all teams in 1997 to honor his barrier-breaking impact and legacy.