Henry Louis Aaron, widely known as "Hammer" or "Hammerin' Hank," is regarded as one of baseball's greatest players. His 23-season career (1954-1976) was primarily with the Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves. Aaron was renowned for his power hitting, holding numerous records upon retirement. Notably, he surpassed Babe Ruth's career home run record, finishing with 755, a record that stood for 33 years. His consistent performance included hitting 24 or more home runs for 19 consecutive seasons (1955-1973).
February 5, 1934: Birth of Hank Aaron
Henry Louis Aaron, known as 'Hammer' or 'Hammerin' Hank', was born on February 5, 1934. He would grow up to become one of the most celebrated baseball players in history.
1936: Inaugural Baseball Hall of Fame Election
The inaugural Baseball Hall of Fame election took place in 1936.
1949: First MLB Tryout
In 1949, at the age of 15, Hank Aaron had his first tryout with an MLB franchise, the Brooklyn Dodgers. Although he did not make the team, this marked the beginning of his journey in professional baseball.
November 20, 1951: Signed by Indianapolis Clowns
On November 20, 1951, baseball scout Ed Scott signed Hank Aaron to a contract with the Indianapolis Clowns of the Negro American League, where he played for three months.
June 12, 1952: Signed with Milwaukee Braves
On June 12, 1952, Hank Aaron signed with Braves' scout Dewey Griggs. The Braves purchased his contract from the Clowns for $10,000, a decision regarded as a steal for the team.
1952: Northern League Rookie of the Year
In 1952, Hank Aaron was assigned to the Eau Claire Bears, where he excelled and was named the Northern League's unanimous Rookie of the Year. Despite facing racism and homesickness, Aaron's performance established him as a rising star.
1953: Winter Season in Puerto Rico
During the winter of 1953, Hank Aaron played in Puerto Rico, where he worked on his batting stance and transitioned to playing in the outfield. This period was crucial for his development as a versatile player.
1953: Marriage to Barbara Lucas
Hank Aaron married Barbara Lucas in 1953, which marked the beginning of his first marriage. The couple had five children: Gary, Lary, Dorinda, Gaile, and Hank Jr.
1953: MVP in South Atlantic League
In 1953, Hank Aaron was promoted to the Jacksonville Braves and led the team to a championship, winning the league's MVP award. Despite facing racial segregation, Aaron's performance was dominant across multiple statistical categories.
March 13, 1954: Hank Aaron's First Spring Training Start
On March 13, 1954, Hank Aaron got his big break when Bobby Thomson fractured his ankle. Aaron took his place in left field and hit a home run. This led to a major league contract and the start of his incredible career with the Braves.
1954: Start of MLB Career
Hank Aaron began his Major League Baseball career in 1954. His journey in MLB would span 23 seasons, marking the beginning of a legendary career.
1955: First All-Star Game Appearance
Hank Aaron made his first All-Star Game appearance in 1955.
1955: Consistent Power Hitting
From 1955 to 1973, Hank Aaron hit 24 or more home runs every year, showcasing his consistent power hitting ability and solidifying his reputation as a top player.
1955: Aaron's Breakout Year: All-Star Debut and Offensive Powerhouse
Hank Aaron had a phenomenal year in 1955, hitting .314 with 27 home runs and 106 RBIs. This performance earned him his first All-Star selection, marking the beginning of a record-breaking 21 All-Star appearances.
1956: Batting Champion and MVP Honors for Aaron
Hank Aaron's exceptional batting skills were on full display in 1956 when he achieved a .328 batting average, earning him his first National League batting title. His performance throughout the season led to him being named The Sporting News NL Player of the Year, a testament to his significant impact on the game.
September 23, 1957: Aaron's Walk-off Clinches the Pennant
On September 23, 1957, Hank Aaron hit a game-winning walk-off home run against the St. Louis Cardinals, securing the National League pennant for the Milwaukee Braves. This remains the only pennant-clinching walk-off homer in MLB history outside of a playoff game.
December 15, 1957: Joy and Sorrow: The Birth and Loss of Aaron's Twins
On December 15, 1957, Hank Aaron and his wife Barbara experienced both joy and sorrow with the birth of their twins. Sadly, one of the infants passed away two days later.
1957: NL MVP and World Series Champion
In 1957, Hank Aaron won the National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award and helped the Milwaukee Braves win the World Series, marking a pinnacle in his career.
1958: Another Pennant and Gold Glove Recognition for Aaron
Hank Aaron continued his impressive performance in 1958, hitting .326 with 30 home runs and 95 RBIs. His contributions were instrumental in leading the Braves to another National League pennant. His consistent excellence on the field was further acknowledged with his first Gold Glove Award, recognizing his defensive skills.
1958: Off-Season Hobbies
In 1958, it was noted that Hank Aaron enjoyed watching westerns, cooking, and fishing during the off-season. These hobbies provided relaxation and enjoyment away from baseball.
June 21, 1959: Aaron Blasts Three Home Runs in a Single Game
On June 21, 1959, Hank Aaron had an unforgettable game against the San Francisco Giants, hitting three two-run home runs. This was the only time in his illustrious career that he achieved this feat.
1959: Conversion to Catholicism
At the age of 25, Hank Aaron, along with his family, converted to Catholicism in 1959. The birth of their first child and a close friendship with a Catholic priest influenced their decision. Aaron was known for his devotion to his faith.
1963: Aaron Nears the Triple Crown
Hank Aaron came close to achieving the Triple Crown in 1963, showcasing his exceptional skills as a hitter. He dominated the league with 44 home runs and 130 RBIs while finishing third in batting average. He also etched his name in baseball history by becoming the third player to hit 30 home runs and steal 30 bases in a single season, a testament to his power and speed.
May 10, 1967: Aaron's Inside-the-Park Homer: A Rare Feat
On May 10, 1967, Hank Aaron hit a rare inside-the-park home run against pitcher Jim Bunning in Philadelphia. This unusual feat stood out in his career, known for its powerful home runs.
July 14, 1968: Aaron Joins the 500 Home Run Club
On July 14, 1968, Hank Aaron solidified his status as one of baseball's greatest power hitters by hitting his 500th career home run off Mike McCormick of the San Francisco Giants. This achievement placed him among an elite group of players to reach this milestone.
1968: Aaron Makes History with 500th Home Run as an Atlanta Brave
In 1968, Hank Aaron etched his name in baseball history once again, this time as the first Atlanta Braves player to hit 500 career home runs. This remarkable achievement solidified his status as one of the greatest hitters of all time.
July 31, 1969: Aaron Surpasses Mantle: 537 and Counting
Hank Aaron continued to climb the all-time home run list, surpassing Mickey Mantle's total of 536 home runs on July 31, 1969. This achievement moved Aaron into third place on the career home run list, trailing only Willie Mays and Babe Ruth.
1970: Aaron Reaches 3,000 Hits as an Atlanta Brave
Continuing his remarkable achievements with the Atlanta Braves, Hank Aaron became the first player in franchise history to reach 3,000 career hits in 1970, further solidifying his place among baseball legends.
1970: Aaron Achieves Two More Milestones
Hank Aaron reached two remarkable milestones in 1970, solidifying his place in baseball history. On May 17, he collected his 3,000th hit in a game against the Cincinnati Reds, the same team he faced in his major league debut. He also set a National League record for the most seasons with 30 or more home runs, showcasing his remarkable consistency as a power hitter.
April 27, 1971: Aaron Joins the 600 Home Run Club
On April 27, 1971, Hank Aaron etched his name in baseball history by becoming the third player ever to hit 600 career home runs. This remarkable achievement further solidified his status as one of the game's greatest sluggers.
1971: Divorce from Barbara Lucas
In 1971, Hank Aaron and his first wife, Barbara Lucas, divorced. This marked the end of their marriage after nearly two decades.
1972: Aaron Surpasses Mays on the Home Run List
During the 1972 season, Hank Aaron continued his pursuit of baseball immortality. He tied and then surpassed Willie Mays for second place on the all-time home run list, putting him within striking distance of Babe Ruth's record. Aaron also achieved the impressive feat of driving in his 2,000th career run and added another milestone by hitting a home run in the first All-Star Game held in Atlanta.
August 1973: Public Support and Controversy Amidst Racism
In August 1973, Hank Aaron received an outpouring of public support in response to racist threats he faced while approaching Babe Ruth's home run record. Notably, Charles Schulz depicted the racism directed at Aaron in his Peanuts comic strip, drawing parallels to Snoopy's pursuit of a fictional record.
September 29, 1973: Aaron Hits Home Run 713
On September 29, 1973, Hank Aaron moved one step closer to Babe Ruth's record by hitting his 713th career home run. With anticipation building, fans hoped he would tie the record in the remaining game of the season.
November 13, 1973: Marriage to Billye Suber Williams
Hank Aaron married Billye Suber Williams on November 13, 1973, marking the beginning of his second marriage. They went on to have one child together, Ceci.
1973: End of Home Run Streak
The year 1973 marked the end of Hank Aaron's remarkable streak of hitting 24 or more home runs each year, a testament to his longevity and skill.
1973: Hate Mail and Death Threats Target Aaron and the Media
During the 1973 and 1974 seasons, as Hank Aaron approached Babe Ruth's revered home run record, he became a target of hate mail and death threats. The bigotry and racism directed at him extended to journalists covering his pursuit, reflecting a dark side of society's reaction to his historic chase.
1973: Aaron's Home Run Chase Captivates the Nation
As Hank Aaron closed in on Babe Ruth's all-time home run record, the nation's attention turned to his pursuit. While he tried to downplay the chase, fans and the media were enthralled, with Aaron receiving a flood of letters, including hate mail, showcasing the complex emotions surrounding his pursuit of history.
April 4, 1974: Ties Babe Ruth's Home Run Record
On April 4, 1974, Hank Aaron tied Babe Ruth's home run record with his first swing of the season, hitting his 714th home run off Reds pitcher Jack Billingham.
April 8, 1974: Breaks Babe Ruth's Home Run Record
On April 8, 1974, Hank Aaron broke Babe Ruth's home run record, hitting his 715th home run off Dodgers pitcher Al Downing in front of a record-breaking crowd in Atlanta. The game was nationally televised, and Aaron's parents ran onto the field in celebration.
October 2, 1974: Final Home Run as a Brave and Contract Expiration
On October 2, 1974, Hank Aaron hit his 733rd home run, his last as a player for the Atlanta Braves. With his contract expiring, Aaron expressed his openness to playing for another year or transitioning into a general manager role.
1974: Facing Fear and Uncertainty
As Hank Aaron entered the 1974 season just one home run shy of breaking Babe Ruth's record, he carried the weight of expectation and the fear instilled by the hate mail and death threats he had received. His statement after the final game of 1973, expressing concern that he might not live to see the next season, reflected the heavy burden he carried during this historic chase.
1974: Hate Mail and Death Threats Target Aaron and the Media
During the 1973 and 1974 seasons, as Hank Aaron approached Babe Ruth's revered home run record, he became a target of hate mail and death threats. The bigotry and racism directed at him extended to journalists covering his pursuit, reflecting a dark side of society's reaction to his historic chase.
1974: Reflects on Breaking Babe Ruth's Record
Hank Aaron consistently expressed that his focus was on playing to his fullest potential, not on breaking records, as he did when reflecting on breaking Babe Ruth's record in 1974.
May 1, 1975: Breaks Baseball's All-Time RBI Record
Hank Aaron broke baseball's all-time RBI record on May 1, 1975, surpassing Babe Ruth's 2,213 RBIs.
July 20, 1976: Hits Final Home Run
On July 20, 1976, Hank Aaron hit his 755th and final home run, a record that stood for 31 years.
1976: Spingarn Medal from the NAACP
Hank Aaron received the Spingarn Medal in 1976 from the NAACP, recognizing his significant contributions to civil rights.
1976: Retirement from MLB
Hank Aaron retired from Major League Baseball in 1976 after an illustrious career filled with numerous records and achievements.
1976: Rejoins the Braves as an Executive
After retiring as a player, Hank Aaron rejoined the Atlanta Braves in an executive role in 1976.
1977: Golden Plate Award
In 1977, the American Academy of Achievement presented Hank Aaron with the prestigious Golden Plate Award, acknowledging his positive influence and achievements.
December 1980: Becomes Senior Vice President of the Braves
In December 1980, Hank Aaron was promoted to senior vice president and assistant to the president of the Atlanta Braves.
August 1, 1982: Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame
Hank Aaron was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame on August 1, 1982, receiving the second-highest percentage of votes in history.
1982: Induction into National Baseball Hall of Fame
Hank Aaron was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1982 during his first year of eligibility, cementing his status as one of baseball's all-time greats.
1982: Induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame
Hank Aaron's remarkable baseball career was officially enshrined in 1982 when he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility, a testament to his exceptional talent and impact on the sport.
1986: Guest Appearance on "Crazy Like a Fox"
Hank Aaron made a guest appearance in 1986 on the television show "Crazy Like a Fox," showcasing his personality beyond the baseball field in the episode "Just Another Fox in the Crowd."
1988: Induction into Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame
In 1988, Hank Aaron was inducted into the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to sports.
1988: Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame Induction
Hank Aaron was recognized for his time playing for Wisconsin teams in 1988 when he was inducted into the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame, honoring his contributions to the Eau Claire Bears, Milwaukee Braves, and Milwaukee Brewers.
1990: Publication of "I Had A Hammer" and Business Ventures
In 1990, Hank Aaron's autobiography, "I Had A Hammer," was published and became a finalist for the Casey Award. The title cleverly played on his nickname and a well-known folk song. This year also marked the beginning of Aaron's entrepreneurial journey as he owned multiple car dealerships, including Hank Aaron BMW in Georgia, where he gifted autographed baseballs with each car purchase.
1991: Aaron Acknowledges Influential Priest
During an interview in 1991, Hank Aaron spoke about the significant influence of Father Michael Sablica on his life during the 1950s. He praised the priest for guiding his personal growth and encouraging him to advocate for social justice causes.
1994: Establishment of Chasing the Dream Foundation
In 1994, Hank Aaron and his wife, Billye, demonstrated their commitment to youth development by founding the Chasing the Dream Foundation. This foundation provided scholarships to members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, reflecting Aaron's dedication to creating opportunities for young people.
April 1997: Hank Aaron Stadium Opening
A new baseball stadium, Hank Aaron Stadium, was inaugurated in April 1997 in Mobile, Alabama, Aaron's hometown. This AA ballpark served as home to the Mobile Bay Bears, a fitting tribute to the baseball legend.
February 5, 1999: Introduction of the Hank Aaron Award
Coinciding with his 65th birthday celebration on February 5, 1999, Major League Baseball announced the creation of the Hank Aaron Award. This award, honoring the best offensive players in both leagues, marked the first major award introduced in over three decades and the first to be named after a living player. This year also saw him recognized as one of the 100 Greatest Baseball Players by The Sporting News and elected to the Major League Baseball All-Century Team.
1999: Introduction of Hank Aaron Award and All-Century Team
In 1999, Major League Baseball introduced the Hank Aaron Award to honor top offensive players. Hank Aaron was also named to the MLB All-Century Team that year.
1999: Creation of the Hank Aaron Award
Major League Baseball, marking the 25th anniversary of Hank Aaron breaking Babe Ruth's home run record, created the Hank Aaron Award in 1999. This prestigious award recognizes the best offensive players in both the American and National Leagues, a lasting tribute to Aaron's legacy.
June 2000: Honorary Doctorate from Tufts University
Hank Aaron's influence and contributions received academic recognition in June 2000 when Tufts University bestowed upon him an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree.
July 2000: Ceremonial First Pitch at the All-Star Game
Hank Aaron threw out the ceremonial first pitch at the Major League Baseball All-Star Game held at Turner Field in July 2000.
January 8, 2001: Presidential Citizens Medal
In recognition of his exemplary service to the nation, Hank Aaron was presented with the Presidential Citizens Medal by President Bill Clinton on January 8, 2001.
June 2002: Presidential Medal of Freedom
Hank Aaron received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, from President George W. Bush in June 2002, a testament to his extraordinary contributions to American society.
July 2002: Second Ceremonial First Pitch at the All-Star Game
Hank Aaron once again threw the ceremonial first pitch at the Major League Baseball All-Star Game in July 2002, this time at Miller Park, now known as American Family Field.
2002: Recognition Among 100 Greatest African Americans
Hank Aaron's impact extended beyond baseball, as he was named one of the 100 Greatest African Americans in 2002 by scholar Molefi Kete Asante.
2002: Lombardi Award of Excellence
Hank Aaron's unwavering spirit and positive influence were recognized in 2002 when he was honored with the Lombardi Award of Excellence from the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation. The award acknowledges individuals who embody the spirit of the legendary coach.
2002: Super Bowl Commercial with Barry Bonds
Shortly before the 2002 baseball season, Hank Aaron appeared in a Super Bowl commercial with Barry Bonds, who was approaching Aaron's home run record.
2002: Awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom
Hank Aaron was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2002, one of the highest civilian honors in the United States, recognizing his impact both on and off the field.
January 21, 2007: Major Role in Atlanta Braves Management and Founding of Hank Aaron Rookie League
During the sale of the Atlanta Braves on January 21, 2007, it was announced that Hank Aaron would play a significant role in the team's management. Aaron also founded the Hank Aaron Rookie League, promoting diversity in baseball.
August 7, 2007: Congratulates Barry Bonds on Breaking His Record
After initially stating he wouldn't be present, Hank Aaron surprised Barry Bonds by congratulating him on breaking his home run record on August 7, 2007, via the JumboTron at AT&T Park in San Francisco.
2007: Barry Bonds Breaks Aaron's Home Run Record
In 2007, Barry Bonds broke Hank Aaron's long-standing home run record.
2007: Barry Bonds Surpasses Aaron's Home Run Record
In 2007, Barry Bonds surpassed Hank Aaron's long-standing MLB record of 755 career home runs, a record Aaron had held for 33 years.
2007: Scaling Back on Car Dealerships
In 2007, Hank Aaron made the decision to sell most of his car dealerships, retaining only the Toyota dealership located in McDonough, Georgia. This move indicated a shift in his business focus.
April 25, 2009: Hank Aaron: Chasing the Dream Exhibit Dedication
On April 25, 2009, Hank Aaron dedicated a new exhibit about his life and career at the Baseball Hall of Fame called "Hank Aaron: Chasing the Dream." This event highlighted Aaron's impact on baseball and his enduring legacy.
2010: Georgia Trustee Recognition
Hank Aaron was recognized for his accomplishments and contributions to the state of Georgia in 2010 when he was named a Georgia Trustee by the Georgia Historical Society. This prestigious honor, bestowed by the Governor, acknowledges individuals whose service reflects the ideals of the state's founding Trustees.
2011: Honorary Doctorate from Princeton University
In 2011, Hank Aaron's achievements extended beyond the baseball field when he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree from Princeton University by President Shirley M. Tilghman. This recognition highlighted Aaron's contributions to society and his enduring impact.
July 2013: Burglary at Aaron's Residence
Hank Aaron's home in the Atlanta area was targeted by burglars in July 2013. Valuables, including jewelry and two BMW vehicles, were stolen, but the vehicles were later found.
2014: Health Challenges and Hip Replacement
In 2014, Hank Aaron faced health issues stemming from arthritis, a common ailment, and underwent partial hip replacement surgery following a fall.
November 2015: Portrait of a Nation Prize Recipient
Hank Aaron's influence on civil rights and the world of sports was recognized in November 2015 when he became one of the first five recipients of the National Portrait Gallery's Portrait of a Nation Prize. This award honors individuals for their outstanding achievements in their respective fields.
January 2016: Order of the Rising Sun Award
Hank Aaron received the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, from Emperor Akihito of Japan in January 2016. This prestigious Japanese honor recognized Aaron's contributions to baseball and his role in strengthening international relations.
2017: Georgia State University Acquires Turner Field
In 2017, Georgia State University acquired Turner Field and transformed it into Center Parc Stadium. The university also revealed plans to construct a new baseball field on the site of the former Atlanta–Fulton County Stadium, incorporating the iconic left field wall where Aaron hit his record-breaking home run.
2019: Elite Development Invitational Renamed in Honor of Hank Aaron
In 2019, the Elite Development Invitational, a youth baseball tournament organized by Major League Baseball and the MLB Players Association to promote diversity, was renamed the Hank Aaron Invitational. This renaming celebrated Aaron's commitment to creating opportunities for young athletes from all backgrounds.
December 2020: Phil Niekro's Passing
Phil Niekro, another baseball legend, passed away in December 2020.
January 5, 2021: Public COVID-19 Vaccination
On January 5, 2021, Hank Aaron, in a powerful message for public health, received the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine publicly at the Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. His action aimed to build trust in the vaccine, especially among Black Americans, by joining other influential figures like Joe Beasley, Andrew Young, and Louis Sullivan.
January 22, 2021: Death of Hank Aaron
Hank Aaron, the iconic baseball player who broke numerous records, passed away on January 22, 2021, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest players in baseball history.
April 2021: Forrest Hill Academy Renamed Hank Aaron New Beginnings Academy
In a significant move to honor Hank Aaron's legacy, the Forrest Hill Academy in Atlanta was renamed the Hank Aaron New Beginnings Academy in April 2021. This decision replaced the institution's previous namesake, Nathan Bedford Forrest, a Confederate general and prominent figure in the Ku Klux Klan.
2021: World Series Tribute and Championship Ring Design
During the 2021 World Series, a pregame ceremony at Truist Park honored Hank Aaron, with his son, Hank Aaron Jr., throwing the ceremonial first pitch. After the Braves' victory, Aaron's legacy was etched in their championship ring design. The ring featured 755 diamonds, representing Aaron's career home runs, and 44 emerald-cut diamonds, symbolizing his iconic jersey number.
2021: Number 44 Retired by Atlanta Sports Teams
Following his passing, several Atlanta sports teams, including the Falcons (NFL), Atlanta United (MLS), Gwinnett Stripers (Triple-A baseball), and Atlanta Gladiators (Double-A baseball), retired Hank Aaron's number 44 in the 2021 season to honor his immense legacy. The Atlanta Hawks (NBA) had previously retired No. 44 for Pete Maravich.
2021: Death of Hank Aaron
Hank Aaron passed away on January 22, 2021, leaving behind an enduring legacy as one of the greatest baseball players and a significant figure in American sports history.
2021: Atlanta Braves Honor Hank Aaron
The Atlanta Braves paid tribute to Hank Aaron throughout the 2021 season by incorporating his jersey number, 44, on their caps alongside the number 35, honoring the late Phil Niekro who had passed away a month earlier. Additionally, they painted the number 44 on the field at Truist Park, a constant reminder of his legacy.
2022: Recording of Aaron's 715th Home Run and Posthumous Degree
The year 2022 saw two significant events honoring Hank Aaron's memory. First, the Library of Congress selected the radio broadcast of Aaron's historic 715th home run for preservation in the National Recording Registry. Additionally, Tulane University awarded Aaron a posthumous honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree, the university's first, accepted by his widow, Billye.
2024: Kimani Vidal's NFL Draft Selection
In 2024, Hank Aaron's great-nephew, Kimani Vidal, was chosen by the Los Angeles Chargers during the NFL Draft, adding another athlete to the family's legacy.