Jackie Robinson
By Rachael Komisar
Childhood
Jack Roosevelt Robinson was born on January 31, 1919. His father left home when he was only six months old. Jackie and his four brothers and sisters were raised n relative poverty by his single mother. Jackie's older brother, Mattew, inspired Jackie to pursue his talent and love for athletics.
Obstacles
Jackie was raised without a father or a father figure to look up to. Just shy of graduation UCLA, he had to drop out due to financial problems. He also joined the army and was honorably discharged when he refused to move to the back of a segregated bus. His patients was tested when he joined the Brooklyn Dodgers and was insulted every day for his color.
Overcoming Obstacles
Achievments
-Got elected into the baseball Hall of Fame in 1962, his first year of eligibility
-Broke the color barrier
-Got honorary degrees from The University of Maryland, Franklin Pierce College, Sacred Heart University, Pace University, and Howard University
-Got awards in college for track, baseball, basketball, and football