HI299 Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Elmer Lach, Jean Drapeau, Original Six
Document Summary
Jan. 18, 1958 o"ree breaks the colour barrier in hockey. Becomes the irst black player in the nhl. Born and raised in montreal (grew up in the bordeaux district, near ville saint-laurente) Entered junior hockey in 1938-verdun maple leafs two seasons, 1938-1940. Nhl had undergone important changes by the start of richard"s career. Between 1926 and 1931 the nhl had ten teams, reduced to six by 1942. In 1942-43, the red line at centre ice was added, beginning a new era of modern professional hockey. Richard, known for his speed, could now burst up the right wing, receive the pass and drive the puck to the net. To many french-canadians, richard became known as one of us . From a modest background and driven by strong will. The 1950s and the glory days of montreal hockey. Together with hector (toe) blake and elmer lach, richard forms the punch line.
