Ghost in the House

A meditation on the life and times of Jack Johnson.

Jack Johnson's story is a prime example of self-reliance and individuality. It is the quintessential American story. The son of former slaves, he possessed gifts and talents that went way beyond being a prize fighter. He was a musician, raconteur, entertainer, horse jockey, bullfighter, inventor, race car driver and secret agent during World War I. He was an infamous Lothario who flaunted his flashy lifestyle in the face of contemporary mores. Jack Johnson was the catalyst for celebrations, condemnations, deadly riots and outrage from all sides of the racial divide. He was also the most famous Black man in the world while being one of the most misunderstood.