Impact on the Civil Rights Movement
Despite some opposition, Baseball’s “Great Experiment” was ultimately a success. Not only did Robinson become a nationally beloved celebrity and go on to play for another ten years, he permanently opened the door for African-Americans in Major League Baseball. Within a decade, all but one Major League team listed African-Americans on their roster.
The impact of Robinson’s story extends far beyond baseball as well. Most importantly, Robinson’s success in breaking the color barrier instilled hope in young African-Americans. Oral histories reveal that African-American baseball fans felt Robinson’s achievement proved that integration was possible and that race restrictions could in fact be lifted. In other words, Robinson made equality seem attainable. This idea of course fueled future civil rights actions and will forever be viewed as a crucial step towards race equality.
Robinson also had a profound effect on white baseball fans. Through his athletic prowess and public poise, Robinson won the support and admiration of white fans. In winning their favor, Robinson moved African Americans closer to equality and in a small way, broke down the barrier between black and white people off the field as well.