Unforgivable Blackness

Discover the compelling biography of Jack Johnson in Unforgivable Blackness by Geoffrey Ward, a profound exploration of the life of the first black heavyweight champion in history. Published in 2015, this award-winning book, which won the prestigious William Hill Sports Book of the Year Award, delves into the life and legacy of Johnson, who reigned from 1908 to 1915. With 544 pages of rich narrative, Ward captures the complexities of Johnson's character, portraying him as both a celebrated and reviled figure in the African American community and beyond. This biography not only chronicles his achievements in the boxing ring but also addresses the social and racial challenges he faced during a tumultuous era in America. Perfect for sports enthusiasts and history buffs alike, Unforgivable Blackness offers a deep understanding of an iconic athlete who broke barriers and changed the landscape of sports forever.