Born March 31, 1878, Jack Johnson was the first African-American world heavyweight boxing champion in 1908. He was nicknamed, "the Galveston Giant". The nickname came from his birthplace in Galveston, Texas. He died June 10, 1946 in Raleigh, North Carolina in and automobile accident.
Jackson held onto the heavyweight title until 1915, and
continued boxing until he was about 50 years old.
He was the son of ex-slaves, and the third of nine children.
Only after a few years of school, Jackson went to work as a laborer to help support his family.
By the age of 16, Jackson was on his own and had his first opportunity to fight for $1.50.
He won the fight and earned $25 for hanging into the fourth round against Bob Thompson.
Early 1900's, Jackson made a name for himself in the black boxing circuit.
After the "Fight of the Century" with Jim Jeffries, Jackson fought for 12 more years.
Jackson was convicted for violating the Mann Act, for bringing his white girlfriend across state lines before they were married. He was sentenced to prison but fled to Europe. He returned to the United States in 1920 and served out his sentence.
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