“A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.”- Jackie Robinson A true leader is someone who people willingly follow and listen to as well as someone who has the ability to influence and motivate others. An outstanding example of a great leader is Jackie Robinson. On April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson shocked the world and changed not only the history of sports, but changed America. Facing the criticism, ignoring the racial slurs, and following his true passion, Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball. Jack Roosevelt Robinson, better known as Jackie Robinson, was born in Cairo, Georgia on January 31, 1919. Him and his four siblings were taken care of by their single mother who was …show more content…

No. Therefore, this is a huge part of what makes him an incredible leader. He made a decision and although clearly not everyone agreed with it, he knew it was right and did not let anyone change his mind. When taunted, criticized, and abused, he did not fight back, but displayed true leadership characteristics of self-control and forgiveness. Just because something was hard did not make Robinson back down. For these reasons, I see Jackie Robinson as a leader and a hero. Jackie Robinson possesses the characteristics I could only dream to have. His story is one of great success. He has inspired me in more than one way. One of the most important ways that Jackie Robinson has inspired me, as well as numerous other people, is his courage to stand up for what he believed in to be right. Many people say that they would stand up for what they believe in during situations like this, but it is easier said than done. Robinson believed in change, made the change, and never once looked back. Because of his bravery, he made one of the biggest changes in history. Without leaders such as Jackie Robinson, black and whites would still be eating in different restaurants, all races would be segregated across the country, and Gary Sheffield would not be able to show the world his talents as a baseball player and would not be able to stand next to his good friend, Derek Jeter on the field. Jackie Robinson is an