One of the most controversial figures in the history of sport was this man, whose story inspired a recent Ken Burns PBS special entitled "Unforgivable Blackness." Johnson's assumption of the Heavyweight boxing title in 1910, and his romances with white women, inflamed the deepest racism among white America and, according to Johnson, led to his intentional forfeiture of the title in 1915. This well-written tale of his own life discusses it all, though collectors will be most interested in the 9+/10 blue fountain pen inscription on one of the opening pages, "Jack Johnson, Former Heavyweight Champion, To Walter Summers, Good Luck." The first edition volume is in terrific condition, with very light wear to the dust jacket. LOA-Craig Hamilton.