Jackie Robinson was an American Major League Baseball second baseman who became the first African American to play in the major leagues in the modern era.
Robinson broke the baseball colour line when the Brooklyn Dodgers started him at first base on April 15, 1947.
Robinson played in six World Series and contributed to the Dodgers’ 1955 World Series championship.
Other sport stars born on this day
1947: Nolan Ryan, ex-Major League Baseball pitcher who had his number retired by three teams (70).
1983: Fabio Quagliarella, Italy forward who currently plays for Sampdoria in Serie A (34).
1985: Mario Williams, NFL defensive end for Miami Dolphins and four-time Pro Bowl selection (32).
1993: Ku Bon-chan, South Korean archer who won an individual and team gold medal at the 2016 Olympics (24).