The Negro Leagues were professional baseball leagues with teams of Black American players, coaches, and management. They were formed to combat the color barrier in major and minor baseball leagues and began in the 1880s. While the very first known baseball game between two black teams was played in New York City in 1859, many famous athletes like Moses Fleetwood Walker and Jackie Robinson went on to the major leagues and became legends. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on one of the Negro League teams called The Atlanta Black Crackers.

The concept of sports dates back to 7000 BC and originally determined who was fit for military service. The first Olympic Games, held in Olympia in 776 BC, gradually expanded over time to include events like sprinting, javelin and discus throws, chariot racing, wrestling, and even boxing. Over time, participation has expanded to include women and other historically marginalized groups who were once excluded from competition. Join me as we explore the incredible contributions of Black Americans to sports and the significant struggles they’ve overcome to succeed.

Over the last four years or so, baseball has rapidly become one of my favorite sports. It’s really entertaining to watch the battle between pitchers and hitters. Black Americans didn’t always have the opportunity to make a name for themselves in the big leagues. It took courage from outstanding people to break barriers and change the norm. Join me as we shine a historical spotlight on the legendary Jackie Robinson and the impact he had on baseball.