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Jack Johnson, boxer, going to court, London
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Jack Johnson, boxer, going to court, London
The American heavyweight boxer Arthur John Johnson, better known as Jack Johnson (1878-1946), nicknamed the Galveston Giant, World Heavyweight Boxing Champion between 1908 and 1915, seen here on his way to court in Bow Street, London, surrounded by a large crowd. He was the first African-American to win the Heavyweight Championship. There was an injunction to stop the fight between Johnson and Billy Bombardier Wells at Earls Court, as it was alleged it could breach the peace -- religious opponents of excessive prize money, and opponents of contests between the races, caused the fight to be cancelled by Winston Churchill, who was then Home Secretary.
September 1911
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Arthur Billy Bombardier Boxer Boxing Champion Championship Controversial Controversy Fight Galveston Giant Heavy Weight Jack Johnson Nickname Police Men Sportsman Stop Wells
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this striking photograph, Jack Johnson, the American heavyweight boxing champion, is seen making his way through a large crowd in Bow Street, London, en route to court in September 1911. Known as the "Galveston Giant," Johnson held the World Heavyweight Boxing Championship from 1908 to 1915, making him the first African-American to achieve this title. The image captures the intense interest and controversy surrounding Johnson and his fights, particularly the scheduled bout against Billy Bombardier Wells at Earls Court, which was cancelled due to an injunction. Religious opponents and those against contests between the races had sought to prevent the fight, leading to its cancellation by Winston Churchill, who was then the Home Secretary. The controversy surrounding Johnson's fights was not new, as his victories and success in the ring challenged societal norms and prejudices of the time. Despite the controversy, Johnson remains a significant figure in the history of boxing and sportsmanship. Surrounded by onlookers and police officers, Johnson's determined expression and confident demeanor are evident in this photograph, making it a powerful representation of his indomitable spirit and resilience in the face of adversity. The large crowd gathered to witness his court appearance underscores the profound impact he had on the sport and society during his time.
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