JACKIE ROBINSON
PROGRAM TOOLKIT FOR AMERICAN SPACES
This toolkit is designed for programming at American Spaces to support sports diplomacy through the exploration of a barrier-breaking athlete.
Jackie Robinson in his Kansas City Monarchs uniform.
Jackie Robinson, first baseman with the Brooklyn Dodgers, circa 1949.
MORE RESOURCES
Graphics
The American Heroes Collection features digital media assets, including posters, videos, social media graphics that were designed for use in American Spaces. The collection contains six files showcasing Jackie Robinson that can be used online or in physical spaces.
Film
42: The True Story of an American Legend (128 minutes)* — Tells the story of Robinson’s path to become the first African-American to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era when he was signed by the Brooklyn Dodgers. Starring Chadwick Boseman.
Jackie Robinson | Kanopy (2 parts) — Documentary from acclaimed director Ken Burns.
Part One (112 minutes): Robinson rises from humble origins to integrate Major League Baseball, performing brilliantly despite the threats and abuse he faces on and off the field and, in the process, challenges the prejudiced notions of what a black man can achieve.
Part Two (113 minutes): Robinson uses his fame to speak out against injustice, alienating many who had once lauded him for “turning the other cheek.” After baseball, he seeks ways to fight inequality, but as he faces a crippling illness, he struggles to remain relevant.
The Jackie Robinson Story (77 minutes)* — Traces Robinson’s career in the Negro Leagues and the major leagues. Restored in original black and white.
Overdrive Resources
Consider organizing discussions, English conversation clubs, scavenger hunts, and displays about the following book. These programs and displays can also be an opportunity to promote individual eLibraryUSA accounts. Regularly highlighting one book or magazine on your social media platforms can generate online discussion and spark interest in eLibraryUSA.
The integration of baseball in 1947 marked a turning point in American history and the civil rights movement, as Jackie Robinson broke a barrier long thought unchangeable. Facing constant racism and hostility, Robinson’s success in the major leagues forced the nation to confront the issue of racial equality. This brief biography tells the story of his courage.
Articles
April 15, 1997: Jackie Robinson’s Number Retired | National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum
Jackie Robinson: Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument | National Park Service
Jackie Robinson, Circa 1946 | National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum
Jackie Robinson—Freedom Fighter | National Archives
Jackie Robinson: Paving the Way Forward | National Museum of African American History and Culture
Sports Heroes Who Served: Baseball Great Jackie Robinson Was WWII Soldier | U.S. Department of War
Online Exhibits
Celebrating Jackie: Commemorating the 75th Anniversary of Jackie Robinson’s Major League Debut | National Museum of African American History and Culture
This online exhibition from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture and Google Arts & Culture commemorates the 75th anniversary of Jackie Robinson’s Major League Baseball debut. Through photographs, artifacts, and stories, it explores Robinson’s achievements, public impact, and lasting legacy as a symbol of opportunity in the United States.
Jackie Robinson | National Baseball Hall of Fame
This exhibit profile highlights Jackie Robinson’s groundbreaking career, from integrating Major League Baseball in 1947 to becoming a Hall of Fame inductee in 1962. It combines biography, career statistics, and historical context to show how Robinson’s talent and resilience reshaped baseball.
INTRODUCTION
Jack Roosevelt Robinson (January 31, 1919 – October 24, 1972) was an American professional baseball player who was the first African American to play in Major League Baseball (MLB) in the modern era. Robinson broke the color line when he started at first base for the Brooklyn Dodgers on April 15, 1947. Jackie Robinson Day is a traditional event which occurs annually on April 15 in Major League Baseball (MLB), commemorating and honoring the day Jackie Robinson made his major league debut. To celebrate the day at MLB ballparks, all players, coaches, managers, and umpires wear Robinson’s uniform number, 42. April 15 was Opening Day in 1947, Robinson’s first season in the major leagues.
In 2005, after his death, Robinson was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal by President George W. Bush. The U.S. Mint created a bronze medal as a replica of that award.
LESSON PLANS
Education Curriculum | The National Baseball Hall of Fame
The National Baseball Hall of Fame offers a variety of baseball themed lesson plans using baseball as a catalyst to teach math, social studies, science, and arts and character education.
Educator Resources | The Jackie Robinson Museum
The Jackie Robinson Museum offers a variety of resources including discussion questions and curriculum guides.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- How do Jackie Robinson’s perseverance and achievements reflect ideals often associated with American excellence, such as determination, resilience, and ambition?
- How did Robinson’s success in baseball strengthen the image of the United States as a country capable of change and growth during the mid-20th century?
- Jackie Robinson Day is celebrated every year across Major League Baseball. What does this national recognition say about how the United States honors individuals who help move the country forward?
- In what ways can sports—like Robinson’s career in baseball—show American leadership in promoting fairness and equal opportunity?
KEY DEFINITIONS
barrier
An obstacle that prevents progress.
Brooklyn Dodgers
The baseball team Jackie Robinson joined in 1947 when he entered Major League Baseball.
color line
The system of racial segregation that kept African American players out of Major League Baseball before 1947.
equality
The principle that all people deserve the same rights and respect.
legacy
The lasting impact a person leaves behind after their life or career.
Major League Baseball (MLB)
The highest level of professional baseball in the United States.
number 42
Jackie Robinson’s uniform number, retired across Major League Baseball to honor his impact.
perseverance
Continuing to try even when something is hard.
resilience
The strength to recover from challenges and continue forward.
role model
A person whose behavior and achievements inspire others.
DISCLAIMER
The views expressed in these links and resources do not necessarily reflect those of the U.S. government.
* Post may need to procure these films. Not all films are appropriate for all audiences. Coordinators should preview films before showing them. American Spaces have the right to screen Kanopy films (available through eLibraryUSA) at their American Space if the film has public performance rights. Other films must be covered by the MPLC license.
Here is more information on showing films at American Spaces.
Updated April 2026
