Who was the first African American to play in Major League Baseball?

Jackie Robinson was the first African American to play in Major League Baseball, breaking the color barrier in 1947 when he joined the Brooklyn Dodgers. His debut marked a significant turning point in the history of American sports and civil rights, as it challenged the segregation that had existed in professional baseball since its inception. Robinson’s success on the field, combined with his composure and intelligence in the face of racial discrimination, helped pave the way for future generations of athletes of color. His impact extended beyond sports, as he became a symbol of the struggle for racial equality in America.

Other figures mentioned, such as Satchel Paige, Hank Aaron, and Joe Morgan, were also influential in baseball history but did not hold the distinction of being the first African American player in the Major Leagues. Paige is known for his pitching prowess, Aaron for breaking Babe Ruth's home run record, and Morgan for his contributions as a second baseman and later as a Hall of Famer. Each of their accomplishments is significant in its own right, but Jackie Robinson's legacy is distinctly tied to the breaking of the racial barrier in professional baseball.