James Robertson (rugby union, born 1854)

James George Robertson (c.1854 – February 1900) was a Scottish rugby union player. He is the first black rugby union player in the world.

James Robertson
Robertson in 1871
Birth nameJames George Robertson
Date of birth1854 (1854)
Place of birthBanjul, The Gambia
Date of death(1900-02-00)February , 1900 (aged 46)
Place of deathRoyston, England
SchoolMadras College
UniversityUniversity of St Andrews
University of Edinburgh
Spouse
Emily Maud
(m. 1880)
Rugby union career
Position(s) Forward
Amateur team(s)
Years Team Apps (Points)
1871-75
1879-82
Royal HSFP
Northumberland
45 ()
Provincial / State sides
Years Team Apps (Points)
1873-75 Edinburgh District 4 ()

The Scottish sports historian Andy Mitchell, who researched Robertson's life, stated: "It is intriguing that someone from an unusual background has come to the country and been accepted into society. There is virtually nothing to indicate that he suffered discrimination due to his colour. This raises the question as to whether his social class allowed them to rise above racial discrimination."

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