Jackie Robinson is widely known and praised for his accomplishments as the first Black athlete to play in Major League Baseball. Though his impact on the field was undoubtedly remarkable, little is known about his personal life outside of baseball. Robinson had a variety of hobbies and interests that have largely remained hidden from the public eye. In this blog post, we’ll uncover the hidden side of Jackie Robinson, and explore some of his lesser-known passions.
Music
One of Robinson’s biggest passions was music. He was a talented piano player, and often played for his friends and family. In fact, Robinson even considered attending college on a musical scholarship before he decided to pursue baseball. Not only was he an accomplished musician, but Robinson was also a huge fan of jazz music. He went to countless concerts and shows, and even hosted his own jazz radio show during his time in Montreal.
Civil Rights Activism
Robinson’s activism for civil rights is well-known, but it was far more ingrained in his life than most people realize. He was deeply involved in the fight for equality not only in baseball, but in all areas of life. He served on the board of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), and was a staunch opponent of segregation and discrimination. Robinson once refused to play in a game in Florida because the team refused to allow Black spectators to attend. He was willing to risk his career to stand up for what he believed in.
Running
In addition to music and activism, Robinson was also an avid runner. He often went on long runs for exercise and to clear his mind. He even participated in a number of marathons, including the Boston Marathon in 1954.
Charity Work
Robinson was also heavily involved in charitable work throughout his life. He established the Jackie Robinson Foundation to provide scholarships and support for underprivileged youth, and worked with numerous other organizations focused on helping those in need. He once said, “A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives,” and he lived by those words every day.
Conclusion
While Jackie Robinson is primarily remembered for his groundbreaking achievements in baseball, he was much more than just a sports icon. Robinson was passionate about music, civil rights, running, and charity work, among many other things. His life serves as a reminder that there is always more to people than meets the eye.
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