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UCL Bookshelf: 'Fighting Back? Jewish and Black Boxers in Britain'
23 May 2007
Michael Berkowitz, Professor of Modern Jewish History (UCL Hebrew & Jewish Studies) has co-produced a book with Ruti Ungar on minorities in British boxing, entitled 'Fighting Back? Jewish and Black Boxers in Britain', to accompany an exhibition appearing at The Jewish Museum.
Boxing has always been a typically English sport yet it has often been popular with ethnic minority groups at the bottom of the socio-economic ladder. Boxers of Jewish, African-Caribbean, African, Romany, Traveller, Irish and Asian origins have all, at one time or another entered the British ring. The sport has not only been a way out of the ghetto, but also a means of gaining acceptance, respect and even, in some cases riches and fame. The exhibition highlights how, despite encountering prejudice, minority boxers could gain status and recognition, both as prominent representatives of their communities and as part of British society.
The story starts with Daniel Mendoza, the 18th century English Jewish boxing champion who is credited as being the father of modern scientific boxing, and his contemporaries, Tom Molineaux and Bill Richmond, black boxers who escaped slavery and achieved fame in the ring. Such boxers did not only literally fight their way into the heart of British society, they were also role models for the youth of their communities and challenged contemporary stereotypes. The exhibition tells their personal stories and describes the ways in which wealth and fame proved to be a mixed blessing, with some boxers ending their days poverty-ridden or in jail.
During the 20th century, young East Enders like Jack Kid Berg, Ted Kid Lewis and Johnny Brown took the boxing route to success. Boys' Clubs and National Service brought opportunities for those handy with their fists and the area east of Aldgate Pump was a breeding ground for young boxers.
Highlights of the exhibition range from original 18th century prints to contemporary photographs of minority boxers including Lennox Lewis and Amir Khan. Also on show are signed posters, programmes, medals and other boxing paraphernalia such as boxing shorts, a gown and a pair of gloves signed by Lennox Lewis. A particular star of the show is the Lonsdale belt which Jewish boxer Johnny Brown won outright in 1925. A new film directed by Elliott Tucker, 'Ghetto Warriors: the Story of East End Jewish Boxing', will also be on view.
The accompanying programme of events will feature films and talks by writers and historians on varied aspects of boxing, sport and race relations.
To find out about visiting the exhibition, or buy a copy of the book, use the links at the bottom of the article or email Professor Berkowitz.
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