Ep 10. Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson

Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson is the 10th and final episode of season 1 of Ken Burns: American Lives. The episode, which is two hours long, tells the story of Jack Johnson, the first African American heavyweight boxing champion.

The episode begins by discussing the social and political climate in America at the time of Johnson's rise to fame. With the end of slavery and the beginning of Jim Crow laws, race relations were tense, to say the least. Despite this, Johnson rose to become one of the most famous athletes of his time.

The episode covers Johnson's early life, his rise through the ranks of professional boxing, and his eventual championship win against Tommy Burns in 1908. It also delves into the racism and discrimination that Johnson faced throughout his career, both inside and outside the ring. This includes the controversy surrounding his relationships with white women and his refusal to adhere to societal norms around race and gender.

As Johnson's fame grew, so did the backlash against him. The episode discusses how white society - including the government and the media - worked to bring Johnson down. This included trumped-up charges of immorality and a campaign to find a "Great White Hope" who could defeat Johnson in the ring.

The second half of the episode covers Johnson's eventual downfall, as he faced legal issues and ultimately fled the country to avoid prosecution. It also discusses the legacy that Johnson left behind, both in terms of his impact on boxing and his role as a trailblazer for African American athletes.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to historical photos and footage, as well as interviews with experts on Johnson and his era. The episode also features readings from Johnson's own writing and interviews with his descendants.

Overall, Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson offers a fascinating look at one of America's most complicated and compelling figures. It sheds light on the racial tensions of the early 20th century and the ways in which one man was able to break down barriers and make history.