Final answer:
Branch Rickey helped Jackie Robinson understand his significant role in challenging racial barriers as he joined the Dodgers, which ultimately led to pennant success and inspired other teams to integrate.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the authors of "Jackie Robinson: Justice at Last," Branch Rickey helped Jackie Robinson realize the powerful role he would play in paving the way for racial equality in Major League Baseball as he decided to sign with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Rickey recognized that integrating baseball was not only the right thing to do but also a smart business decision in a diverse city like New York. The entry of Jackie Robinson into the Major Leagues served as a catalyst for change, demonstrating Rickey's commitment to racial equality and setting an exemplary model for self-restraint and discipline. This move led the Dodgers to pennant success in Robinson's rookie season and inspired several other teams to integrate in the ensuing years.