Jackie Robinson's life story from his birth in 1919 to his death in 1972 as told by filmmakers Sarah Burns, David McMahon and Ken Burns in a four hour documentary. Robinson rises from humble beginnings to break the color barrier in the Major League Baseball. Robinson's on the field contributions over a ten year career transform the Dodgers into perennial contenders; while his courage and accomplishments advance the civil rights movement off the field. After baseball, as both a both a businessman and leader, Robinson tirelessly fights inequality and discrimination. Interwoven into the story is how Robinson's family life and marriage shaped the man who would became an American icon.