Ken Burns: Jackie Robinson

Born to tenant farmers in rural Georgia and raised in Pasadena, California, Jackie Robinson rose from humble origins to break the colour barrier in baseball. He excelled at athletics from an early age, but faced racism and discrimination everywhere.

In 1949, Robinson led the Dodgers to the World Series for the second time in three seasons and won the Most Valuable Player award. He also began to speak out, arguing calls with umpires and challenging opposing players.