Jackie Robinson Enters the Hall of Fame

On July 23, 1962, Jackie Robinson became the first African American inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, fifteen years after his 1947 debut with the Brooklyn Dodgers broke the sport's color line.

Robinson was elected in his first year of eligibility, five years after retiring following the 1956 season. In his induction speech, he thanked his mother and his wife, Rachel, for their support through a career spent under constant public scrutiny.

Robinson's career totals, a .311 batting average, a Rookie of the Year award, an MVP award, and six All-Star selections, understated his impact on the sport; his enshrinement formally recognized both his playing ability and his role in integrating the major leagues.