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Circa 1965 Jackie Robinson Handwritten Letter with Buzzy Bavasi Racial Criticism "Those Like Bavasi Who Want the Negro to be a Nice Guy Who Won't Rock the Boat in Times of Crisis" (PSA)
Two-page handwritten letter (on each side of a single sheet), undated, signed by Jackie Robinson. In his letter to "Bob" (most likely his good friend Bob Campbell), penned on his personal letterhead, Robinson unleashes a lengthy tirade against Dodgers longtime general manager Buzzy Bavasi. In part: "I think Maury would be a better manager Bob - he wants to be one - I know [sic] longer care to as what Buzzy didn't say was Maury's temperment [sic] best suits those like Bavasi who want the Negro to be a nice guy who won't rock the boat in times of crises. I am grateful for the opportunities baseball gave me. I took advantage of them and at this point I don't have to satisfy the likes of Buzzy or any of the narrow-minded people who run the game. If I sound bitter I don't intend to be. I merely want you to know how I feel about Bavasi and those who dictate policy. I am pleased to be working with men making progress and am satisfied with the status quo. . . ." Although the letter is undated, a passage on the second page, conclusively dates it to 1965. Robinson writes that his son Jackie "is due home from Viet Nam any day." (Jackie Robinson Jr. was wounded in Viet Nam in November, 1965, and returned home shortly after he recovered.) The "Maury" mentioned in the letter is almost certainly Dodgers shortstop Maury Wills, who had just concluded his seventh season with the club in 1965. The letter is signed "Sincerely Jackie." Both the signature and text are boldly scripted in blue ink and grade "9" overall. The letter (7.25x10.5") displays one vertical and two horizontal mailing folds, and is in Excellent condition overall. Full LOA from PSA.
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