Watch Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson

Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson is a documentary series that explores the life and career of the first African American heavyweight boxing champion, Jack Johnson. The four-hour series is directed by Ken Burns and features narration by Keith David, along with interviews and commentary from various experts, including Samuel L. Jackson.

The series is based on the book by Geoffrey C. Ward and includes archival footage and photographs, as well as re-enactments of key moments from Johnson's life. The documentary follows Johnson's journey from his humble beginnings as the son of a former slave in Galveston, Texas, to becoming one of the most controversial and celebrated athletes of his time.

Johnson's rise to fame was not without its challenges, and the series delves into the racial tensions and discrimination that he faced both in and out of the ring. Despite being a gifted and skilled fighter, Johnson's victories were met with hostility and backlash from the establishment, which sought to discredit and undermine him.

The series also explores Johnson's personal life, including his relationships with women, which were scandalous and controversial at the time. Johnson's marriage to Lucille Cameron, a white woman, was illegal in many states and caused him to be targeted by the government and law enforcement.

Throughout the series, Johnson's defiance and refusal to back down in the face of adversity are highlighted as key factors in his success. He refused to conform to societal norms and expectations, and in doing so, he became an iconic figure and trailblazer for future generations of African American athletes.

However, Johnson's success was short-lived, as he eventually fell from grace due to his own personal demons and struggles. The series examines his eventual decline and ultimate downfall, highlighting the ongoing racism and prejudice that contributed to his demise.

Overall, Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson is a powerful and thought-provoking series that offers a detailed and nuanced look at an important figure in American history. Through its exploration of Johnson's life and legacy, the series sheds light on the ongoing struggle for racial equality and justice in the United States.

Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson is a series that ran for 1 seasons (2 episodes) between January 17, 2005 and on PBS Documentaries