Major Taylor: The first Black American global sports superstar

Major Taylor: The First Black American Global Sports Superstar He shattered world records abroad but was shunned at home. Now, the greatest athlete you've never heard of could receive the US' highest civilian honor. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, cycling was one of the most popular sports in the world, with racetracks drawing large crowds. It was during this time that Major Taylor, an African American cyclist, rose to prominence and became the first black American global sports superstar. Marshall "Major" Taylor was born on November 26, 1878, in Indianapolis. He was the son of Gilbert Taylor, a Civil War veteran, and Saphronia Taylor. At a young age, Taylor showed a great aptitude for cycling and began working as a bicycle messenger in Indianapolis. Taylor quickly gained attention for his speed and skill on the bike. In 1896, at the age of 18, he won his first professional race. This victory marked the beginning of his remarkable career in the world of cycling. Throughout his career, Taylor faced numerous challenges due to the color of his skin. He encountered racism and discrimination both on and off the racetrack. Many white cyclists refused to compete against him, and he often had to race against the clock instead of fellow riders. Despite this adversity, Taylor shattered world records and became known as the "Worcester Whirlwind" for his exceptional speed and agility on the bike. In 1899, he set a new world record for the mile, completing it in one minute and 19 seconds. Taylor's success extended beyond the United States. He traveled to Europe and competed in races against the best cyclists in the world. In 1901, he won the world championship title in Montreal, becoming the first black cyclist to achieve such a feat. However, Taylor's achievements were often overlooked and undermined in his own country. He faced discrimination and was denied endorsement deals and sponsorships that his white counterparts received. Despite holding several world records and achieving international acclaim, Taylor struggled to make a living from his sport. In addition to the racial discrimination he faced, Taylor also battled financial difficulties. He invested his earnings in various business ventures, but many of them failed, leaving him in debt. At one point, he even declared bankruptcy. Despite these challenges, Taylor remained dedicated to his sport and continued racing until 1910. He retired at the age of 32 and focused on promoting cycling and encouraging young athletes, particularly African Americans, to pursue their dreams in the sport. Taylor's legacy is not only defined by his athletic achievements but also by his groundbreaking role as a black athlete in a segregated society. He broke down barriers and paved the way for future generations of black athletes to compete and excel at the highest level. Today, Major Taylor is recognized as a trailblazer and is revered by many in the cycling community. Efforts are underway to honor his legacy and ensure that his story is not forgotten. In 1996, the Major Taylor Association was founded to promote his accomplishments and preserve his memory. The organization works to educate the public about his life and achievements through various initiatives and events. There is also a push to have Major Taylor posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. In recent years, several bills have been introduced in Congress to secure this recognition for Taylor. If he is awarded the medal, Major Taylor will be the first black cyclist and one of the few athletes to receive this prestigious honor. Major Taylor's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. He overcame racism and discrimination to become a global sports superstar and inspire future generations of athletes. His legacy continues to inspire and reminds us of the importance of equality and justice in sports and society as a whole.