"The fight between life and death is to the finish, and death ultimately is the
victor. ... I do not deplore the passing of these crude old days." Those are the wise
words from the first African American world heavyweight boxing champion, Jack
Johnson, also know as, “The Galveston Giant.” Johnson had a big impact on American
culture during the 19th century. He was an inspirational role model to fellow African
Americans, he resorted to boxing as a get away from all of the hatred and segregation
in the world during this time. He became famous during the Jim Crow era and he
encountered many difficulties. The Jim Crow era was a time that informed laws directed
towards all African Americans. These laws were stated in 1876 and ended in 1965,
known as “separate but equal.” It followed black laws such as segregation in public
schools, public places, public transportation, restrooms, restaurants, and drinking
fountains. Jackson encountered many racial problems and violence against white
fighters. Most African Americans looked up to this courageous man and thought of
him as a hero. He impacted many lives and also allowed people to get away from the
intense discrimination. Johnson made a big name for himself by defeating a lot of white
opponents. He was an inspiration to a lot of people during this time. He was known for
being the most notorious African American on the earth to all blacks.
In Johnson’s early days he had a rough childhood. He was born on March 31,
1878 in Galveston, Texas. He grew up with eight siblings and it was not a glamorous
lifestyle. His parents were ex-slaves and he wanted to be successful and make
something of himself during his lifetime. Both of his parents worked blue collar jobs and
all kids were home schooled. The family could not afford for all the children to attend
school, which was a main problem for most African American families