Before Jackie Robinson created his legacy in Major League Baseball, he played one memorable year in Canada. #BlackHistoryMonth

In 1947, Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier being the first African American player in Major League Baseball. But it was a season with the Montreal Royals the year before that propelled his career forward. Before joining the Brooklyn Dodgers, GM Branch Ricky felt their triple-lay affiliate, the Montreal Royals, would be a great spot for Robinson to ease his way into professional baseball. In a city scene as racially tolerant, Montreal welcomed Robinson with open arms. Robinson played 124 games with the Royals, posting a 349 batting average with three home runs and 66 RBIs. Robinson helped the Royals win the internationally championship. After the game concluded, fans rushed the field to swarm Robinson. They carried him on his shoulders like he was a local hero. In 1991, Robinson was named the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame, recognizing his short but impactful time in Canada.