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3. Joe Gans, Boxing Champ

Action Mike Sullivan Fighting Joe Gans

Source: Bettmann / Getty


Baltimore-bred Joe Gans (born 1874) was boxing’s first Black champion. The “Old Master,” whose boxing career spanned from 1981 – 1909, was known for his scientific fighting style and skills that landed him the title of “World Lightweight Champion” from 1902-1904 and 1906-1908. He died an early death in August 1910 of tuberculosis but his legacy lives on forever. His monument sits at the left of the main entrance of the Mount Auburn Cemetery in Baltimore.

6 Black Baltimore History Makers  was originally published on magicbaltimore.com

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