Final answer:
Branch Rickey understood that integrating his team by signing Jackie Robinson would benefit the team and attract more fans. Robinson's success inspired other teams to integrate.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the authors of "Jackie Robinson: Justice at Last," Branch Rickey understood that integration would make his team better and immediately boost gate receipts in a diverse city such as New York. Rickey recognized that by breaking the color line and signing Jackie Robinson, he could inspire fans and players alike and promote racial equality in the Major Leagues. The on-field success and selfless demeanor of Robinson led the Dodgers to the pennant in his rookie season and inspired several other teams to integrate in the next three seasons.
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