Jackie Robinson was the cover photo of Time Magazine 75 years ago today.
His rookie appearance earlier on April 15, 1947 began the integration of Major League Baseball.
Player #42 for the Brooklyn Dodgers would end that year with the Rookie of the Year award. From today it seems inevitable, but in 1947, the major sports teams, the military, and many major cities were all firmly segregated.
In the exhibition “Sports: Leveling the Playing Field” the Smithsonian Nation Museum of African American History and Culture explores Jackie Robinson and other sports stars who are cultural icons.
Put this exhibit on your list of what to see in Washington DC. Find it on the 3rd floor of the NMAAHC. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Mondays from 12 to 5:30 p.m.
