Sport, race and African-Caribbean migrants in Australia: Evaluating Jack Dowridge, the 'Black Diamond' boxer.

This article delves into the life and accomplishments of Jack Dowridge, an African-Caribbean boxer who migrated to Australia in the 1870s. Dowridge was a prominent figure in the boxing world and also had successful business ventures in gambling, hotels, restaurants, and theaters. The article examines Dowridge's experiences navigating racial dynamics in Australia and highlights instances of prejudice and racism he faced. It also discusses his role in mentoring other black and African-Caribbean migrants and expands on the limited research on Caribbean migrants to Australia. The text provides valuable insights into the life and business ventures of John Edward Dowridge, an African-Caribbean migrant in Australia during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Dowridge was a successful entrepreneur who owned various businesses, including a tobacconist and hairdressing shop, cafes and restaurants, and a theater. His most successful venture was horseracing sweepstakes, which he operated until they were banned in Queensland in 1895. The article also explores Dowridge's Caribbean origins, although his background and family roots remain difficult to verify. It discusses the presence of African-Caribbean migrants in Australia and their involvement in sports, particularly boxing, and provides historical context on the struggles faced by black boxers in the sport. The article acknowledges the limited primary evidence on Dowridge's boxing career but highlights the support and admiration he received from the press. Overall, the article sheds light on the complex experiences of an African-Caribbean migrant [Extracted from the article]