What was Jackie Robinson's turning point in his life?
In 1947, Jackie Robinson integrated Major League Baseball. Owners segregated the sport 60 years earlier and blocked attempts to desegregate up until Robinson's debut. Robinson faced the vilest bigotry from fans and opponents alike. He did receive some encouragement from Hank Greenberg who experienced similar attacks on his Jewish heritage early in his career. Eventually, Commissioner Happy Chandler threatened to suspend any player that refused to take the field with Robinson. Additionally, Robinson's teammates began defending their fellow Dodger. Jackie Robinson went on to win the Rookie of the Year. His performance on the field began to change people's minds on race. In sports, the only color that matters is on the uniform. It is no coincidence that the Civil Rights Movement succeeded and changed minds after Robinson's debut.