The legendary Hank Aaron, revered Hall of Famer, died at 86 years of age.

Introduction

On January 22, 2021, the remarkable Henry Louis “Hank”Aaron departed this life in Atlanta, Georgia at the age of 86, peacefully passing in his sleep due to natural causes.

The Record for Career Home Runs in Major League Baseball.

Hank was widely celebrated for his smooth and powerful home run swing, having eclipsed Babe Ruth’s long-held Major League Baseball record of 714 home runs by hitting an impressive total of 755 homers throughout his career. It wasn't until 33 years later that Barry Bonds surpassed Aaron's landmark achievement, finishing with a controversial tally of 762 home runs.

On April 8, 1974, Hank Aaron made history by hitting his milestone 715th home run off pitcher Al Downing in the fourth inning, a moment celebrated by 50,000 enthusiastic fans in Atlanta. As Hank completed his circuit around the bases, a few overzealous fans joined him in a sprint, following him to home plate where he was lifted in jubilation by his teammates. His parents were present for this unforgettable moment, and he was later interviewed by the beloved sports journalist, Craig Sager. Los Angeles Dodgers’ Recognition by the Hall of Fame and the Hank Aaron Award.

In 1982, Hank Aaron was rightfully honored with induction into the Hall of Fame, achieving an impressive 97.8% of votes during his first year of eligibility, just nine votes shy of a unanimous selection, a first in the Hall's history. In 1999, to further commemorate his legacy, Major League Baseball introduced the Hank Aaron Award, which annually celebrates the league's best hitters in both the American and National Leagues.

While he was revered as one of the greatest players to grace the baseball field, off the field, Hank Aaron was a passionate and vocal advocate for civil rights. Having experienced significant racism and discrimination growing up in the deep South, he faced numerous challenges throughout his life. For instance, he wasn't permitted to participate in organized high school baseball in Mobile, Alabama because those teams were exclusively for white students. Baseball Hall of Fame An illustrative instance of the racism he encountered during his career was highlighted when he began receiving death threats as he neared Babe Ruth's home run record. Hank once poignantly remarked, “ If I was white, all America would be proud of me…but I am Black. "

Off the Field Accomplishments

Hank’s journey to Major League Baseball began in the Negro Leagues, where he played for the Indianapolis Clowns in the early 1950s. He vividly recalled a moment from his career in Washington D.C., stating, “We had breakfast while waiting for the rain to stop, and I can still hear the sound of plates smashing in the kitchen after we finished eating. At that moment, I realized the irony: in a city known for freedom and equality, the restaurant had to destroy those plates just because they had been used by Black men.”

After a brief and successful tenure in the Negro Leagues, both the New York Giants and the Boston Braves offered him contracts, but he ultimately chose the Braves due to a $50 difference in pay. Hank recounted, “I had the Giants' contract in my hand. But the Braves offered fifty dollars a month more. That’s the only reason Willie Mays and I weren’t teammates – just fifty dollars.” Imagine the wonders if both legends had played for the same team!

Hank Aaron was not only a phenomenal baseball player; he was also a fervent advocate for equality and civil rights in America. His commitment to fighting for justice off the field often felt even more important to him than his remarkable achievements and accolades on the diamond. He is forever celebrated for his integrity, leadership, and significant contributions to bettering society.

Highlights of Hank Aaron’s illustrious MLB career. Hank Aaron Twice crowned National League Batting Champion (1956, 1959).

Overall, the home run king Four-time leader in home runs in the National League (1957, 1963, 1966, 1967).

Recognized as part of Major League Baseball's All-Century Team.

• 25 Time MLB All Star (1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975)
• World Series Champion (1957)
• Nation League MVP (1957)
• 3 Time Gold Glove Award (1958, 1959, 1960)
• "Our family is heartbroken by the news of Hank Aaron's passing,\" stated Georgia Governor Brian Kemp. "Hank Aaron was an American icon and a legendary figure in Georgia. His life and career made history, and his impact extended beyond sports, significantly advancing civil rights and the pursuit of equality. We encourage all Georgians to remember Hammering Hank and to keep his family in our thoughts and prayers.\"
• "We are profoundly saddened by the loss of our cherished Hank,\" said Terry McGuirk, chairman of the Atlanta Braves. "He was a guiding light for our franchise, both as a player and a community leader. Hank’s extraordinary talent and spirit led him to remarkable success, yet his humility remained ever-present. Henry Louis Aaron was not just our icon but a worldwide symbol within Major League Baseball. His achievements on the field paralleled his significant business success and philanthropy efforts.\"
• 4 Time National League RBI Leader (1957, 1960, 1963, 1966)
• Atlanta Braves No. 44 Retired
• Milwaukee Brewers No. 44 Retired
• Braves Hall of Fame
• American Family Field Walk of Fame
• "Our hearts ache for his wife Billye, their children Gaile, Hank Jr., Lary, Dorinda and Ceci, as well as his grandchildren,\" he continued.

MLB Records

• 2,297 Career Runs Batted In
• 6,856 Career Total Bases
• 1,477 Career Extra Base Hits
• 25 Career All Star Appearances

Media Statements

"Hank Aaron is universally recognized as one of the greatest players of all time,\" commented Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred. "His extraordinary accomplishments as an athlete were only matched by his integrity and dignity as a person. Hank epitomized the best of our game, setting an inspiring example for fans far and wide, showing that with daily humility, one can achieve greatness and leave a lasting legacy.\"

"If I were white, America would celebrate me,\" Hank Aaron famously stated nearly a year before he surpassed Babe Ruth's all-time home run record. "But I am Black.\"

"This is a profound loss for the city of Atlanta,\" said Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms. "While he was known as 'Hammering Hank Aaron' for his exceptional baseball prowess, he also played a pivotal role in our community by dedicating time and resources to improve our city. As an adopted son of Atlanta, Mr. Aaron shaped our identity on the global stage. We extend our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to the Aaron family.\"

"In baseball, African Americans can reach great heights,\" Aaron remarked. "But once our careers end, we go back to the back of the bus.\"

"With immense courage and dignity, he smashed records while enduring hostility that could have broken lesser individuals,\" stated President Joe Biden. "But he remained unbreakable.\"

"Not only did he break records, but he also shattered racial barriers. His incredible legacy will motivate countless athletes and admirers for generations to come,\" chimed in President Carter, a native of Georgia who frequently cheered on the Braves with his wife, Rosalynn.

"Hank Aaron didn’t simply receive his crown as Home Run King; he earned it through perseverance,\" explained George Bush. "He rose from humble beginnings and faced significant racism on his path to greatness. Despite the challenges, he never allowed hatred to consume him.\"

"In addition to being one of the greatest baseball players in history, Hank was a kind-hearted individual and a treasured friend,\" reflected former MLB Commissioner Bud Selig, emotionally. "Not too long ago, we were strolling through Washington, D.C., reminiscing about our 60-plus years of friendship. Hank said, 'Who would have imagined that a Black kid from Mobile, Alabama would break Babe Ruth's record, and a Jewish kid from Milwaukee would become the Commissioner of Baseball?'\"

"Hank Aaron was one of the finest ballplayers we've ever known, as well as one of the most resilient individuals I've encountered. Michelle and I extend our heartfelt prayers to the Aaron family and all those inspired by this humble man and his remarkable legacy,\" they said.

"Rest in peace to an American hero, an icon, and a Hall of Famer, Hank Aaron. I vividly remember where I was when he achieved what was then a record-breaking number of home runs. While he was a legendary athlete, Hank was also a brilliant businessman who paved the way for future athletes like me to transition into business successfully. Hank Aaron rightfully claims a spot among the greatest baseball players in history! Rest in peace, my friend. Cookie and I are praying for the entire Aaron family.\"

The legendary Home Run champion and Hall of Famer Hank Aaron has passed away at the age of 86.

Barack Obama Tweeted:

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Magic Johnson Tweeted:

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Stacey Abrams Tweeted:

The iconic Hall of Famer Hank Aaron has left us at 86 years old.

Bill Russell Tweeted:

Henry Louis \"Hank\" Aaron, a monumental figure in Major League Baseball who played for the Milwaukee and Atlanta Braves as well as the Milwaukee Brewers, died peacefully in his sleep on January 22, 2021, in Atlanta, Georgia. He was 86 years old, and his death was attributed to natural causes.

Record for career home runs in Major League Baseball.

@MLB @Braves”

Fergie Jenkins Tweeted:

Aaron earned fame for his beautifully smooth swing when hitting home runs. He surpassed Babe Ruth’s legendary record of 714 career home runs, ultimately securing 755 homers throughout his career. It wasn’t until 33 years later that Barry Bonds, amid controversies surrounding performance-enhancing drugs, broke this record by hitting 762 home runs.

Keisha Lance Bottoms Tweeted:

On April 8, 1974, Aaron sent a memorable deep shot off left-handed pitcher Al Downing for his historic 715th home run. This monumental achievement unfolded before a jubilant crowd of 50,000 fans in Atlanta, Georgia. While rounding the bases, a few exuberant fans ran alongside him until he finally reached home plate. His teammates lifted him in celebration, followed by a heartwarming embrace with his parents. The legendary Craig Sager conducted his post-game interview, further cementing that moment in history.

Cory Booker Tweeted:

The Hall of Fame Recognitions and the Establishment of the Hank Aaron Award.

Dan Rather Tweeted:

In 1982, the baseball community honored Hank by inducting him into the Hall of Fame, a testament to his exceptional career, having garnered an impressive 97.8% of the votes during his first year of eligibility. This put him just nine votes away from achieving the milestone of being the first unanimous selection in Hall of Fame history. Later, in 1999, Major League Baseball further celebrated \"Hammering Hank\" by introducing the Hank Aaron Award, given each year to the most outstanding hitter in both leagues.

Dwight Gooden Tweeted:

While Aaron was celebrated for his extraordinary achievements on the baseball diamond, off the field he emerged as a formidable civil rights advocate. Having navigated a childhood marred by profound racism, discrimination, and segregation in the Deep South, he faced numerous hardships. For example, he was barred from joining organized high school baseball teams in Mobile, Alabama, as only white students were allowed to participate.

Dave Winfield Tweeted:

A poignant illustration of the racism he faced during his career occurred when he started receiving death threats as he approached Babe Ruth's home run record. Just before breaking the record, he famously remarked, \"If I was white, all of America would be proud of me… but I am Black.\"

Lenny Kravitz Tweeted:

To join Major League Baseball, Hank transitioned from the Negro Leagues, where he played for the Indianapolis Clowns in the early 1950s. He often reflected on the overt racism he experienced, such as one memory of dining with his teammates while waiting for rain to subside. He vividly recalled the sound of plates being smashed in the kitchen after their meal, highlighting the irony of being treated indignantly in the nation’s capital despite it being a place associated with freedom and equality.

MC Hammer Tweeted:

After a brief and successful period in the Negro Leagues, he was approached with contracts from both the New York Giants and the Boston Braves. Ultimately, he chose the Braves, swayed by an offer that included a $50 salary increase over what the Giants proposed. Hank noted, \"I had the Giants’ contract in my hand. But the Braves offered fifty dollars a month more. That’s the only thing that kept Willie Mays and me from being teammates—fifty dollars.\" Just think about it: Mays and Aaron together on the same Major League team would have been a phenomenal sight!

David Ortiz Tweeted:

Hank Aaron was not only a top-tier player in Major League Baseball but also a passionate advocate for equality and civil rights in America. His commitment to fighting for justice off the field was as impressive as his athletic accolades, earning him a legacy that extended well beyond baseball. He is celebrated for his integrity, leadership, and dedicated use of his platform to make a positive impact in society.

Russell Wilson Tweeted:

Here are some highlights of Hank Aaron’s career achievements, accolades, and awards.

Frank Thomas Tweeted:

He was a two-time batting champion in the National League (1956, 1959).

Chipper Jones Tweeted:

Aaron led the National League in home runs four times (1957, 1963, 1966, 1967).

Dale Murphy Tweeted:

He was named to the Major League Baseball All-Century Team.

Mike Trout Tweeted:

"Our family is heartbroken by the news of Hank Aaron's passing,\" said Georgia Governor Brian Kemp. \"Hank Aaron was not just a symbol of American history but a defining figure for Georgia. His remarkable life and career impacted not only the realm of sports but also society through his vital contributions toward civil rights and advocating for equality. We encourage all Georgians to pray for his fans, family, and loved ones as we remember the incredible legacy of Hammering Hank.\"

Marcus Stroman Tweeted:

"We are profoundly saddened by the loss of our beloved Hank,\" remarked Atlanta Braves chairman, Terry McGuirk. \"He was a guiding light for our organization, both as a player and a community leader. His immense talent and tenacity led him to unimaginable heights, yet he remained grounded and humble throughout his life. Henry Louis Aaron transcended our team to become a global icon. His on-field success was complemented by his accomplishments in business and extensive philanthropic efforts.\"

J P Crawford Tweeted:

"We share in the heartbreak and are holding his wife Billye and their children Gaile, Hank Jr., Lary, Dorinda, Ceci, and their grandchildren in our thoughts,\" he added.

Justin Turned Tweeted:

"Hank Aaron ranks among the top players of all time,\" stated Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred. \"His extraordinary achievements on the field were outshone only by his dignity and character as an individual. Hank epitomized the best of baseball, leaving an exemplary legacy for fans around the world to aspire to. His journey reminds us that hard work and humility can lead to unforgettable accomplishments. He truly hammered his way into the annals of history—shining brighter than anyone else.\"

Colin Kaepernick Tweeted:

"If I was white, all America would be proud of me,” Hank Aaron once expressed, shortly before he surpassed Babe Ruth's historic home run record. \"But I am Black.\"

President Biden Tweeted:

"This is a tremendous loss for Atlanta,\" exclaimed Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms. \"Though known worldwide as 'Hammering Hank Aaron' due to his remarkable baseball achievements, he was a foundational figure in our community, generously contributing to improve Atlanta alongside Mrs. Aaron. As an adopted son of our city, he helped elevate Atlanta's presence on the global stage. Our sincere gratitude and thoughts are with the Aaron family during this difficult time.\"

Sources:

"In the arena of sports, Black players have had the opportunity to excel, but once our careers end, we often face the same old prejudices and challenges again,\" Aaron shared. , espn.com, January 22, 2021.

"With great bravery and grace, he surpassed one of the most revered records in the sport while enduring the kind of hostility that could have broken many. Yet, he remained unyielding,\" commented President Joe Biden. \"He was, without a doubt, unbreakable.\" , espn.com, January 22, 2021.

“Hank Aaron” , wikipedia.org, January 27, 2021.

“Hank Aaron” , baseball-reference.com, January 27, 2021.

"A true pioneer breaking both records and racial barriers, Hank's incredible legacy will continue to inspire numerous athletes and fans for generations,\" stated former President Jimmy Carter, a Georgia native who often attended Braves games with his wife Rosalynn. , baseball-reference.com, January 27, 2021.

"The former Home Run King didn’t simply inherit his title,\" noted George Bush. \"He overcame a challenging upbringing and faced racism on his journey to becoming one of the all-time greats in baseball. Hank never allowed the hatred directed at him to consume his spirit.\" , baseball-reference.com, January 27, 2021.

Written by: David Green