As a sports historian with a keen interest in the integration of sports, I can provide an insightful look into the history of African American athletes in American football. The question of who was the first black man to play football is complex, as it depends on the context in which "football" is used. In the United States, "football" typically refers to American football, while in other parts of the world, it often refers to what Americans call "soccer."

In the context of American football, the narrative often revolves around Kenny Washington. He was indeed a pioneer in breaking the color barrier in the National Football League (NFL). Washington, along with Woody Strode, became the first African American players to sign contracts in the modern NFL era. They signed with the Los Angeles Rams in 1946, effectively breaking the league's unwritten rule against black players that had been in place since the 1930s.

However, it's important to note that African American athletes participated in football before this, particularly at the college level and in other professional leagues. For example, in 1892, William Henry Lewis became the first African American to be recognized as a national champion in a team sport when he played for the University of Pennsylvania's football team. Additionally, the first professional football player of African descent was likely Charles Follis, who played for the Shelby Athletic Club in the early 1900s.

In the realm of soccer, or association football, the history is different. The first black player to gain prominence in soccer was Arthur Wharton, who played in England in the late 19th century. Wharton was a professional sprinter and footballer, and he became the first black player to sign for a British club when he joined Darlington in 1887.

The story of integration in sports is a rich and complex tapestry, with many individuals contributing to the breaking down of racial barriers. It's crucial to recognize the efforts of all these pioneers, as their struggles and achievements paved the way for the diverse and inclusive sports landscape we see today.

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Lots of kids know about Jackie Robinson and how in 1947 he became the first African American to play Major League Baseball. Not as many kids -- or adults -- know about Kenny Washington. But Kenny Washington was the Jackie Robinson of the National Football League (NFL).Feb 19, 2014read more >>