The Kentucky Derby has a complex history with respect to race and Black participation. African Americans have had a long-standing connection to the sport of horse racing, both as skilled jockeys and as integral figures in the care and training of the horses. In the early years of the Kentucky Derby, Black jockeys were prominent and successful in the sport, winning most of the early runnings of the prestigious race.

In fact, 15 of the first 28 Kentucky Derbys were won by Black jockeys, including Oliver Lewis, Alonzo Clayton, and Isaac Murphy, who remains one of the most successful jockeys in the history of horse racing. Despite facing discrimination and racism, these jockeys and trainers played a crucial role in the early success of horse racing in America.

However, as the sport of horse racing became more commercialized and segregated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, opportunities for Black jockeys and trainers began to decline. By the mid-20th century, segregation in horse racing was widespread, and Black jockeys were largely excluded from participating in major races like the Kentucky Derby.

In recent decades, efforts have been made to highlight the contributions of Black jockeys and trainers to the history of horse racing, including at the Kentucky Derby. Organizations like the National Museum of African American History and Culture have worked to preserve and share this important aspect of Black history in the sport.

Overall, the history of the Kentucky Derby reflects the broader challenges and triumphs of African Americans in the world of horse racing, and serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of Black individuals to American history and culture.