Jackie Robinson Day
Jackie Robinson Day is celebrated every year on April 15 in Major League Baseball (MLB) to commemorate and honor the debut of Jackie Robinson's Major League.
It is celebrated at MLB ballparks and all players, coaches, and managers of both teams including the umpires wear Jersey number 42 which was Robinson's number.
The opening of Robinson's first season in the major leagues took place on April 15.
Who Was Jackie Robinson
Jackie Robinson was the first black player to play Major League Baseball. He stepped on the field as the first baseman for Brooklyn Dodgers on April 15, 1947.
Robinson was an experienced player and also played for the Kansas City Monarchs which was also a part of the Negro leagues as well as minor-league terms in the MLB.
Even though he was not the most efficient player in the Negro leagues, he earned a lot of respect and love. He was very calm and patient.
His demeanor impressed Branch Rickey, the president of the Dodgers. Rickey was already on the lookout for a Black player who had enough guts to fight back against the blatant racism.
He and another Black player had to face racially motivated taunts from everyone, including their teammates.
Robinson was also the first one to receive the Rookie Of The Year Award in 1947 as well as the National League's Most Valuable Player (NLMVP) award in the year 1949.
The Origin Of Jackie Robinson Day
It was observed for the first time on April 15, 2004, and this marked an iconic beginning of an annual baseball tradition for Major League Baseball.
This day remains iconic to date as Jackie Robinson broke all color barriers by making his historic debut in the MLB.
Hence, it also serves as a reminder of the event that took place on that particular day in 1947.
It was the beginning of one player who took the initiative and changed the future of sports forever.
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