February 20

Events - Sports

1952day.year

Emmett Ashford becomes the first African-American umpire in organized baseball by being authorized to be a substitute umpire in the Southwestern International League.

Emmett Ashford broke baseball’s color line in 1952 as the first African-American umpire in organized minor league play.
In February 1952, Emmett Ashford was given authorization to serve as a substitute umpire in the Southwestern International League. His appointment made him the first African-American to officiate professional baseball games in the Jim Crow era. Known for his energetic style and authoritative presence, Ashford earned respect from players and fans alike. He navigated racial barriers to pave the way for future minority umpires at all levels of the sport. Over the next decade, Ashford officiated in the Pacific Coast League before becoming Major League Baseball’s first African-American umpire in 1966. His career remains a landmark in both sports and civil rights history.
1952 Emmett Ashford African-American umpire baseball
1998day.year

American figure skater Tara Lipinski, at the age of 15, becomes the youngest Olympic figure skating gold-medalist at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan.

At 15 years old, Tara Lipinski became the youngest Olympic figure skating gold-medalist at the 1998 Winter Games in Nagano.
On February 20, 1998, American figure skater Tara Lipinski delivered a stunning free skate performance at the Nagano Winter Olympics, securing the gold medal at just 15 years old. Her technical precision and artistic flair set new standards in women's figure skating. Lipinski's victory made her the youngest Olympic champion in figure skating history, surpassing previous records. Her achievements captivated audiences worldwide and elevated the sport's popularity in the United States. The win bolstered her professional career, leading to endorsements and a successful turn on professional skating tours. Lipinski's historic gold remains a benchmark for young athletes aspiring to Olympic success. Her performance in Nagano is remembered as one of the Olympics' most iconic moments.
1998 Tara Lipinski 1998 Winter Olympics Nagano