Major Taylor: The World's Fastest Man

Major Taylor: The World's Fastest Man

by Markus Zusak

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	150 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	10 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The Early Years

Marshall "Major" Taylor was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, on November 26, 1878. His parents were former slaves, and he grew up in poverty. As a child, Taylor had a passion for cycling, and he would often race his friends on the streets of Indianapolis. In 1896, at the age of 18, Taylor won his first major cycling race, the Indiana State Championship. This victory launched Taylor's career as a professional cyclist.

A Star Is Born

In 1899, Taylor moved to Worcester, Massachusetts, where he joined the Worcester Rovers cycling team. With the Rovers, Taylor began to compete in major cycling races throughout the United States and Europe. In 1901, Taylor won the world championship in the one-mile sprint, becoming the first African American to win a world championship in any sport. Taylor's victory was a major breakthrough for African Americans, and it helped to break down racial barriers in the sport of cycling.

The Color Line

Despite his success, Taylor faced discrimination throughout his career. He was often denied entry to races, and he was sometimes forced to race against white cyclists who were much slower than him. In 1903, Taylor was banned from competing in the world championships because of his race. This ban was a major setback for Taylor, but he refused to give up. He continued to race in the United States, and he won several more major championships.

A Legacy of Success

Taylor retired from cycling in 1910, but he continued to be involved in the sport as a coach and mentor. He helped to train several young African American cyclists, and he played a major role in the development of cycling in the United States. Taylor died in Chicago, Illinois, on June 21, 1932. He was 53 years old.

A Lasting Impact

Major Taylor was a true pioneer. He was the first African American to win a world championship in any sport, and he helped to break down racial barriers in the sport of cycling. Taylor's legacy is still felt today, and he is considered one of the greatest cyclists of all time.

Bibliography

* Major Taylor: The World's Fastest Man by Andrew Ritchie * Major Taylor National Historic Site * The World's Fastest Man by Smithsonian Magazine

Major Taylor: The World's Fastest Man

by Markus Zusak

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	150 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	10 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE