B H This Day in Black History

December 14

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December 14, 1961

Ernie Davis Wins Heisman Trophy

On December 6, 1961, Ernie Davis of Syracuse University won the Heisman Trophy, becoming the first Black player to receive college football's highest individual honor. Tragically, he was diagnosed with leukemia and died at age 23 without ever playing a professional game.

sportscivil-rights
People: Ernie Davis
Sources
1. Ernie Davis - Heisman Trophy - Heisman.com2. Ernie Davis: The First African American to Win the Heisman Trophy - Syracuse University - SU News3. Ernie Davis: The First African American Heisman Trophy Winner - National Museum of African American History and Culture

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