Jackie Robinson
This is Jackie Roosevelt Robinson better known as "Jackie" Robinson. He was born January 31, 1919. Jackie Robinson was the first African American to play major league baseball. He started at 1st base for the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947. Jackie played in the Major Leagues for 10 seasons. His number "42" has been retired from baseball, which means no other players can ever have that number on their jersey. In 2004, the Major League adopted a "Jackie Robinson Day". On April 15 all players on all teams wear his number to honor Jackie Robinson. Mr. Robinson was also the first African American television analyst for Major League Baseball. (MLB)
Vonetta Flowers
This is Vonetta Flowers. She was born October 23, 1973. Ms. Flowers was the first African American to win a gold medal in the winter Olympics. She competed in the field of bobsledding. Originally Ms. Flowers wanted to be compete in track and field, but was unsuccessful. She didn't give up her hopes of being an olympian. Instead she pursued and focused on another sport.
Althea Gibson
This is Althea Gibson. She was born August 25, 1927. Ms. Gibson was the first African American to play tennis in national and international tournaments. She was the first African American to win Wimbledon and the U.S. nationals. She won 11 Grand Slams. After leaving tennis, Ms. Gibson played professional golf and became the first African American woman to join the LPGA.
Gabrielle Douglas
This is Gabrielle Douglas. Gabrielle was born December 31, 1995. She is the first African American to win Olympic Gold in the individual all-around gymnastics event. She also won a gold medal in the team event. She is 17 years old.