1936 – "Joe Louis Defeats Jack Sharkey in Chicago"

On May 12, 1936, African American boxing legend Joe Louis knocked out former heavyweight champion Jack Sharkey in the sixth round of their bout in Chicago. The victory solidified Louis’s growing reputation as a dominant force in boxing. Known as the “Brown Bomber,” Louis represented a new era of Black athleticism and respectability during a time when Black Americans faced harsh racial discrimination. His calm demeanor, sportsmanship, and devastating punches helped him win over both Black and white fans in a segregated America. Louis’s rise to prominence served as a source of pride for the African American community, offering a counter-narrative to the widespread racism of the era. His later victory against Nazi boxer Max Schmeling in 1938 would further elevate him to an international symbol of anti-fascism and racial justice. May 12 marks a key moment in his legendary journey.