Barriers have existed to deny people the chance to compete athletically based on their race, ethnic background, or sex. Some athletes, through their courage and class, have broken down the barriers that have afflicted our society, and sometimes affected greater social change. Jackie Robinson fought racism in the army before integrating baseball when it was our national pastime. He endured and excelled through a tumultuous 1947 season and opened the doors to other African-American players at a time when the fight for civil rights was beginning in earnest.