The Harlem Globetrotters are an iconic and pioneering basketball team with a rich history in Black history. They were founded in 1926 in Chicago, Illinois by Abe Saperstein, a Jewish immigrant from London. The team originally started as a serious competitive basketball team, but quickly gained popularity for their entertaining style of play, incorporating comedy routines, theatrical tricks, and ball-handling skills into their games.

The Harlem Globetrotters broke racial barriers in the sports world during a time of segregation and discrimination against African Americans. In the 1940s and 1950s, when racial segregation was still prevalent, the Harlem Globetrotters were one of the few Black-owned and operated basketball teams that toured across the United States and around the world, showcasing their talents and bringing joy to audiences.

The team's success and popularity helped pave the way for future generations of Black athletes to overcome racial prejudice and discrimination in sports. The Harlem Globetrotters also played an important role in promoting diversity and inclusion in sports, inspiring people of all backgrounds to come together and enjoy the game of basketball.

Over the decades, the Harlem Globetrotters have become cultural ambassadors of goodwill, traveling to over 120 countries and territories, and spreading their message of sportsmanship, unity, and entertainment. They have influenced generations of basketball players and fans, leaving a lasting impact on the world of sports and Black history.