From childhood, Jackie Robinson's mother taught him to confront racism merely by showing his talent.

	Robinson's legacy stands strong today.

In the spring of 1947, Robinson joined the Brooklyn Dodgers in Cuba for spring training. Several of his new teammates had circulated a petition to exclude Robinson. Manager Leo Durocher told the protesters they could leave if they wanted. Nobody left.

That year, Robinson became the first black player to play in the major leagues in the 20th century. Robinson tore the league up, batting .297 and leading the league with 29 stolen bases. He was named Rookie of the Year.

During his 10 seasons with the Dodgers, Robinson batted .311 and led the team to six pennants and one World Series Championship.

He was the first black player to win the MVP award and the first to be elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame. He also was the first baseball player -- black or white -- to be featured on a postage stamp.

By following his mother's advice, he paved the way for all black athletes in professional team sports. Jackie Roosevelt Robinson changed America.

Jackie Roosevelt Robinson was born Jan. 31, 1919, in Cairo, Ga. He died Oct. 24, 1972, in Stamford, Conn.