The NFL’s integration is explored in this detailed article, with a focus on Woody Strode’s contributions to football. Discover more about the forgotten heroes of professional football, including Strode, by visiting CAUHOI2025.UK.COM. Keep reading to find out more about Strode’s legacy and his impact on sports and civil rights.
1. Woody Strode: Breaking Barriers in the NFL
Woody Strode, along with Kenny Washington, played a pivotal role in ending the 13-year ban on African Americans in the National Football League (NFL). On March 21, 1946, Washington joined the Los Angeles Rams, and he insisted that his best friend and fellow Bruin, Woody Strode, also be signed. Their signing marked a significant milestone in the integration of professional football.
1.1. The Forgotten Heroes
Despite their groundbreaking achievements, Washington, Strode, Marion Motley, and Bill Willis remain largely forgotten heroes of professional football. Ross Greenburg, a 52-time Emmy award-winning filmmaker, paid tribute to these men in a documentary titled “Forgotten Four: The Integration of Pro Football”. Greenburg noted that their story is a piece of American history that few people know about, mainly because Major League Baseball overshadowed the NFL and AAFC at the time.
1.2. UCLA’s Tribute
To honor the achievements of these men posthumously, UCLA and EPIX hosted the Los Angeles premiere of Greenburg’s documentary on September 9. The event included a panel discussion featuring Olympic gold medalist and UCLA alumnus Rafer Johnson, former NFL Pro Bowl quarterback Donovan McNabb, UCLA civil rights scholar Paul Von Blum, Greenburg, and Los Angeles Times reporter Kurt Streeter.
1.3. Remembering the Hidden History
Von Blum emphasized the importance of remembering the hidden history of African American accomplishments in athletics and other fields. He noted that long before Jackie Robinson’s entry into major league baseball, these pioneering African American football players made their mark in the NFL, setting the stage for other athletes of color.
2. Honoring Washington and Strode
Before a game against Memphis on September 6, Kalai Strode, son of Woody Strode, and Karin Washington Cohen, daughter of Kenny Washington, were honorary captains during the coin toss. This tribute highlighted their fathers’ enduring legacy.
2.1. Coach Mora’s Perspective
UCLA football coach Jim Mora expressed great pride in knowing that his players were standing with the families of Washington and Strode. He displayed a photo of Washington and Strode outside his office and aimed to have his players watch the film to understand the history and its impact.
2.2. NFL’s Screening of the Film
EPIX also showed the film to NFL teams nationwide. The Denver Broncos screened the film for 20,000 people who came to watch them scrimmage. This widespread screening helped to raise awareness of the contributions of these forgotten heroes.
3. The NFL’s Segregated Past
The NFL didn’t start as a segregated sports league. Up until 1933, 17 African Americans had played in the league. However, team owners decided to bar blacks from the field, largely due to the influence of George Preston Marshall, the owner of the Washington Redskins, according to Greenburg. The Great Depression exacerbated racial tensions, with a feeling that blacks were taking away jobs from whites.
3.1. The “Gold Dust Twins”
Washington and Strode were standout athletes who became known as “the gold dust twins” at UCLA. Washington, named the nation’s top collegiate player in 1939, led UCLA to its first undefeated season and played in the College All-Stars Game against the Green Bay Packers. Despite his achievements, he was not picked by the NFL due to the ban on black players.
3.2. Post-War Changes
With the end of World War II, the country began to realize that if African Americans could fight and die for the country, they deserved equal opportunity. This sentiment influenced the formation of the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) in 1946 and the move of the Cleveland Rams to Los Angeles.
4. Breaking the Color Barrier
The L.A. Rams needed a lease to play in the Coliseum, and a group of black sports writers and Roger Jessup, a member of the Los Angeles Coliseum Commission, stipulated that the Rams include at least one African American on the team. Consequently, Washington joined the Rams, breaking the NFL’s 13-year color barrier, along with Strode.
4.1. Challenges and Hardships
Despite being allowed to play, Washington and Strode faced numerous challenges. They were often targets for bruising play by opposing players and faced discrimination from teammates from the Deep South. The physical toll was significant, with Washington often battered throughout entire games, Greenburg noted.
4.2. Strode’s Hollywood Success
Strode played with the Rams for only one season. Rams owner Dan Reeves objected to Strode’s interracial marriage and created obstacles for his success on the field. However, Strode found success in Hollywood, becoming a successful actor in movies like “Spartacus”.
5. Legacy and Recognition
Washington ended his football career three years after breaking the color barrier due to knee injuries. While Motley and Willis, who had longer careers, were elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, neither Washington nor Strode have been.
5.1. Principled Men
Greenburg described all four players as principled men with supreme character. They created close-knit families and did not feel the need to be propped up as symbols of racial equality. Their humility and resilience left a lasting impact.
5.2. A Pioneering Spirit
Coach Mora emphasized the pioneering spirit of Washington and Strode, stating that their actions set a standard of achievement for current players. UCLA’s commitment to judging people on achievement and attitude, rather than race, religion, or gender, reflects their legacy.
Woody Strode and Kenny Washington in vintage NFL action, showcasing their historic integration of the league.
6. The Impact of Kenny Washington on the NFL
Kenny Washington’s entry into the NFL marked the end of a 13-year color ban, paving the way for other African American players. His talent and determination challenged racial stereotypes and contributed to greater equality in professional sports.
6.1. Overcoming Obstacles
Washington faced numerous obstacles, including racial discrimination and physical challenges on the field. Despite these hardships, he persevered and left a lasting impact on the NFL. His courage and resilience serve as an inspiration to athletes and civil rights advocates.
6.2. Washington’s Contributions to UCLA Football
Before his NFL career, Kenny Washington was a standout player at UCLA. He led the Bruins to their first undefeated season and was named the nation’s top collegiate player in 1939. His success at UCLA demonstrated his exceptional talent and potential for greatness.
7. The Significance of Woody Strode’s Role
Woody Strode’s role in breaking the NFL color barrier was equally significant. As Kenny Washington’s teammate and friend, Strode faced similar challenges and contributed to the integration of professional football.
7.1. Strode’s Athletic Versatility
Strode was a versatile athlete who excelled in football and track and field. His athletic achievements and his courage to stand against racial discrimination made him a role model for future generations.
7.2. From Football Field to Silver Screen
After his brief NFL career, Woody Strode transitioned to acting and became a successful Hollywood actor. His career in the film industry provided him with a platform to challenge racial stereotypes and promote greater diversity in media.
Old newspaper clipping highlighting the NFL's initial rejection of Kenny Washington due to racial barriers.
8. The broader context of racial integration in American sports
The integration of the NFL through players like Woody Strode and Kenny Washington happened in the backdrop of significant racial tensions and segregation in the United States. Their achievements were a part of a broader movement towards civil rights and equality.
8.1. Parallels with Jackie Robinson
The story of Woody Strode and Kenny Washington has parallels with Jackie Robinson’s integration of Major League Baseball. All three athletes faced immense pressure and discrimination but played a crucial role in breaking down racial barriers in American sports.
8.2. The Impact on Future Generations
The courage and determination of Woody Strode, Kenny Washington, and Jackie Robinson paved the way for future generations of African American athletes. Their legacy continues to inspire athletes and activists to fight for equality and justice.
9. Exploring the documentary “Forgotten Four: The Integration of Pro Football”
Ross Greenburg’s documentary, “Forgotten Four: The Integration of Pro Football,” sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of Woody Strode, Kenny Washington, Marion Motley, and Bill Willis. The film provides valuable insights into their lives, careers, and the challenges they faced.
9.1. Interviews and Personal Stories
The documentary features interviews with family members, historians, and former teammates, providing personal stories and perspectives on the impact of these athletes. These first-hand accounts bring the history to life and highlight the significance of their achievements.
9.2. Preserving History
By documenting the stories of these forgotten heroes, Greenburg’s film helps to preserve an important part of American sports history. The film serves as a reminder of the struggles and triumphs of African American athletes and their contributions to the integration of professional sports.
10. Resources for Further Learning
To further explore the topic of Woody Strode, Kenny Washington, and the integration of the NFL, there are various resources available. Documentaries, books, and online articles provide additional information and insights into this important chapter in American sports history.
10.1. Books on the subject
Several books document the history of African Americans in professional football, including biographies of Kenny Washington, Woody Strode, Marion Motley, and Bill Willis. These books provide in-depth accounts of their lives, careers, and the challenges they faced.
10.2. Online articles and documentaries
Numerous online articles and documentaries explore the topic of racial integration in American sports. These resources offer valuable information and perspectives on the contributions of African American athletes and their impact on society.
10.3. Connect with CAUHOI2025.UK.COM
For more information on the history of the NFL and its impact, visit CAUHOI2025.UK.COM. Our website provides well-researched, easy-to-understand articles on various topics, including sports history and civil rights.
Are you looking for more in-depth answers and reliable information? Visit CAUHOI2025.UK.COM today to explore a wealth of knowledge and get your questions answered quickly and effectively!
FAQ: Woody Strode Football
1. Who was Woody Strode?
Woody Strode was an American athlete and actor, known for breaking the color barrier in the NFL and for his roles in Hollywood films.
2. When did Woody Strode break into the NFL?
Woody Strode broke into the NFL in 1946 when he signed with the Los Angeles Rams.
3. Who was Kenny Washington?
Kenny Washington was a fellow UCLA alumnus and friend of Woody Strode who also broke the color barrier in the NFL.
4. What team did Woody Strode play for?
Woody Strode played for the Los Angeles Rams.
5. What challenges did Woody Strode face in the NFL?
Woody Strode faced racial discrimination and physical challenges on the field.
6. How did Woody Strode contribute to civil rights?
Woody Strode’s participation in the NFL helped to break down racial barriers in professional sports.
7. What is “Forgotten Four: The Integration of Pro Football”?
“Forgotten Four: The Integration of Pro Football” is a documentary that pays tribute to Woody Strode, Kenny Washington, Marion Motley, and Bill Willis.
8. What was Woody Strode’s career after football?
After football, Woody Strode became a successful actor in Hollywood.
9. What impact did Woody Strode have on future generations?
Woody Strode’s courage and determination paved the way for future generations of African American athletes.
10. Where can I find more information about Woody Strode?
You can find more information about Woody Strode at CauHoi2025.UK.COM and in various books and documentaries.
