Is it finally time to pardon Jack Johnson?

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.

Jack Johnson, the first black heavyweight boxing champion, may finally get a decision that’s been overdue for three quarters of a century.

The House recommended today that he should be granted a presidential pardon for a racially motivated conviction 75 years ago that blemished his reputation and hurt his boxing career.

Johnson became world heavyweight champion in 1908, sparking a search for a white boxer, dubbed “the Great White Hope,” who could beat him.

Two years later, Jim Jeffries was brought out of retirement to fill that role. Johnson stopped him in the 15th round and race riots followed.

In 1913, Johnson was convicted of violating the Mann Act which outlawed the transportation of women across state lines for immoral purposes. Authorities had first unsuccessfully tried to charge Johnson over his relationship with a white woman who later became his wife. They then found another white woman who testified that Johnson had transported her across state lines in violation of the Mann Act.

Johnson fled the country, returning in 1920 to serve nearly one year at Leavenworth. He tried to renew his boxing career after leaving prison, but never regained his title.

“He was a victim of the times and we need to set the record straight -- clear his name -- and recognize him for his groundbreaking contribution to the sport of boxing,” said Rep Peter King, R-N.Y., author of the resolution asking the president to grant the pardon. Johnson died in 1946.

The measure now goes to the Senate.

-- Mike James