# Jack Johnson

> American boxer (1878–1946)

**Wikidata**: [Q316689](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q316689)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Johnson)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/jack-johnson-q316689

## Summary
Jack Johnson was an American boxer (1878–1946) and the first African American world heavyweight champion, known for breaking racial barriers in sports during the early 20th century. His career and personal life challenged societal norms, making him a controversial yet influential figure in boxing history.

## Biography
- **Born**: March 31, 1878
- **Nationality**: American
- **Known for**: Being the first African American world heavyweight boxing champion
- **Field(s)**: Boxing

## Contributions
Jack Johnson made significant contributions to the sport of boxing, particularly as the first African American to hold the world heavyweight title. His victories in the ring challenged racial prejudices and paved the way for future generations of African American athletes. Johnson's career spanned from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, during which he defeated notable opponents and became a symbol of resilience and determination.

## FAQs
**What was Jack Johnson's significance in boxing history?**
Jack Johnson was the first African American to win the world heavyweight boxing championship, a milestone that broke racial barriers in the sport and had a lasting impact on the perception of African American athletes.

**When did Jack Johnson become the world heavyweight champion?**
Jack Johnson became the world heavyweight champion on December 26, 1908, when he defeated Tommy Burns in Sydney, Australia.

**What were some of Jack Johnson's notable achievements?**
Johnson's notable achievements include his victory over James J. Jeffries in 1910, a fight that was highly publicized and controversial due to racial tensions. He also had a successful career that spanned over two decades, during which he defended his title multiple times.

**What was Jack Johnson's legacy?**
Jack Johnson's legacy extends beyond his boxing career. He challenged racial stereotypes and paved the way for future African American athletes. His life and career have been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and films, highlighting his impact on sports and society.

## Why They Matter
Jack Johnson's impact on boxing and society is profound. As the first African American world heavyweight champion, he challenged racial prejudices and stereotypes, paving the way for future generations of African American athletes. His victories in the ring were not just personal achievements but also symbolic triumphs that resonated with the African American community and beyond. Johnson's legacy continues to inspire athletes and activists, making him a significant figure in both sports and civil rights history.

## Notable For
- First African American world heavyweight boxing champion
- Victory over James J. Jeffries in 1910, known as the "Fight of the Century"
- Breaking racial barriers in sports
- Influential figure in the history of boxing and civil rights

## Body
### Early Life
Jack Johnson was born on March 31, 1878, in Galveston, Texas. He grew up in a time of significant racial discrimination and segregation in the United States. Despite these challenges, Johnson developed an interest in boxing and began his career in the sport.

### Boxing Career
Johnson's boxing career began in the late 19th century. He quickly gained recognition for his skill and determination in the ring. On December 26, 1908, Johnson defeated Tommy Burns in Sydney, Australia, to become the first African American world heavyweight champion. This victory was a significant milestone in boxing history and had a profound impact on racial perceptions in sports.

One of Johnson's most notable fights was against James J. Jeffries on July 4, 1910. This fight, known as the "Fight of the Century," was highly publicized and controversial due to racial tensions. Johnson's victory over Jeffries further solidified his place in boxing history and challenged racial stereotypes.

### Personal Life and Legacy
Jack Johnson's personal life was as controversial as his boxing career. He faced significant racial discrimination and legal challenges, including his conviction under the Mann Act in 1913. Despite these challenges, Johnson continued to box and defend his title until his retirement in 1932.

Johnson's legacy extends beyond his boxing career. He challenged racial stereotypes and paved the way for future generations of African American athletes. His life and career have been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and films, highlighting his impact on sports and society.

### Awards and Recognition
Jack Johnson was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990, recognizing his significant contributions to the sport. His life and career continue to be celebrated and studied, making him a significant figure in both sports and civil rights history.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File
2. BnF authorities
3. BoxRec
4. Find a Grave
5. Geographic Names Information System
6. BlackPast.org
7. International Standard Name Identifier
8. MusicBrainz
9. Encyclopædia Britannica Online
10. SNAC
11. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
12. National Archives Identifier
13. BBC Things
14. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File