Lecture: Jeff Perlman on Bo Jackson: The Last Folk Hero

Introduction

• Speaker: Steve Weiberg, Public Affairs Staff, Kansas City Public Library
• Weather Note: Acknowledgment of the challenging weather conditions for attendees
• Jeopardy Question: Highlight on Bo Jackson's career; many contestants didn't know who Bo Jackson was

Bo Jackson: A Transcendent Sports Hero

• Dual Sports Achievement: Excelled in football and baseball
• Nike Campaign: Featured prominently, enhancing his mythical status
• Career Ending Injury: Career was cut short but left a lasting legacy

Jeff Perlman's Book: The Last Folk Hero

• Book Availability: High demand, libraries in Kansas City have all copies checked out
• Research: Interviews with over 700 people; Bo Jackson's guarded nature
• Previous Works: Jeff has written about notable sports figures and teams

Early Life and Athletic Prowess

• High School Records: Set national home run record despite missing games for track
• Track and Field Achievements: State records and decathlon championships
• Auburn University: Won the Heisman Trophy, showed incredible speed

Professional Career

• Kansas City Royals: Notable moments like first MLB hit against Steve Carlton
• Bo's Multisport Ability: Played for the Raiders in NFL; excelled in both sports
• Unique Feats: Famous for running up outfield walls, hitting memorable home runs

Personal Traits and Anecdotes

• Guarded Personality: Known for being reserved, not easily approachable
• Interpersonal Relations: Mixed reception from teammates
• Interesting Stories: Unique antics like shooting arrows in the clubhouse

Career Legacy

• Artificial Hip: Played professional baseball with a significant medical disadvantage
• Cultural Impact: Remains a legendary figure despite being less known among younger generations

Closing Remarks

• Jeff Perlman: Discusses the enduring impact and legacy of Bo Jackson
• Audience Engagement: Q&A session addressing various aspects of Bo's life and career
• Signing Session: Jeff Perlman available for book signing after the lecture

This lecture provided a comprehensive overview of Bo Jackson's athletic career and personal life, highlighting his status as a legendary figure in sports history. Jeff Perlman's insights and anecdotes brought to life the unique and multifaceted legacy of Bo Jackson.