Final answer:
Jackie Robinson faced initial resistance and racial discrimination from some teammates and the public upon joining the Brooklyn Dodgers, but his skill and professionalism won many over, leading to a shift in attitudes towards segregation in sports.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Jackie Robinson joined the Brooklyn Dodgers, he met a mix of reactions from his teammates and the broader public. Initially, he faced significant resistance and was subjected to racial discrimination and taunts not only from opposing teams but sometimes from his own teammates as well. However, Robinson's undeniable talent, discipline, and professionalism gradually won many over. His performance on the field contributed to the Dodgers winning the pennant and changed the attitudes of Americans towards segregation in sports.
Robinson's ability to practice self-restraint in the face of provocation was crucial in this regard. By not reacting to the taunts and playing the game with determination, Jackie Robinson was able to reverse many negative opinions. As a result, by the end of his first season, he had not only integrated Major League Baseball but also laid the groundwork for the acceptance and respect of future African American players.