We are currently experiencing a disruption of our service to our World and Create Channels. We are actively working to restore functionality. Thank you for your patience!

Stream live and on-demand content now on our new app:
RMPBS+

Thank you to those who supported Rocky Mountain PBS on Colorado Gives Day!

Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson show's poster

Part 1

Jack Johnson was the first African American Heavyweight Champion of the World. His dominance over his white opponents spurred furious debates and race riots in the early 20th century.

RMPBS Passport

Please log in to your PBS Passport account to watch this video

Become a Member

Part 1

Season 1 Episode 1 | 111m 0s | CC

Follow Jack Johnson's remarkable journey from his humble beginnings in Galveston, Texas, as the son of former slaves, to his entry into the brutal world of professional boxing.

Related stories

History
Fort Garland celebrates the history — and recipe — of tortillas in southern Colorado
The cooking lesson at the museum came with a lesson about the history of tortillas.
 | Chelsea Casabona
History
In 'Moments That Made US,' History Colorado showcases 50 artifacts that shaped American history
Moments That Made US, History Colorado’s newest marquee exhibit, takes you on a journey through American history through the lens of found artifacts.
 | Sarah Shoen
Colorado Experience
Colorado Experience: Hidden History of Cheesman Park
Learn the history of a site that began as one of Denver’s first cemeteries and its transformation to a landmark park and safe space for the LGBTQ+ community.
 | Amanda Horvath

Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson

Watch more episodes

See more
See more