Jackies outstanding courage and overall outstanding life has left a lasting legacy on the MLB and America today. Not only did he inspire young black athletes across the U.S.A, he paved the way for future black greats in the MLB. Essentially, Jackie was the Martin Luther King of the baseball world. His aggressive style of play has been crucial to the MLB, especially his famous stealing of all bases. Not only did Jackie leave his mark on the baseball field though, he was a great Civil Rights activist and helped push the movement for black rights. In July 1949, Jackie testified the issue of racial discrimination before the House Un-American Activites Committee. He even marched with Martin Luther King Jr. in 1963. Even after his baseball career, Jackie still worked hard. He was an active businessman and was an executive for the Chock Full O' Nuts coffee company and restaurant chain. He also helped establish the Freedom Bank, which is a great symbol in African American history. On October 24, 1972, Jackie finally succumbed to Diabetes and heart issues. Jackies wife established the Jackie Robinson Foundation after his death. This foundation provides scholarships for young, troubled children and provides tutoring programs. This is but one way that Jackie still lives on off the baseball diamond, effecting young lives.
"The way I figured it, I was even with baseball and baseball with me. The game had done much for me, and I had done much for it". ~Jackie Robinson