What Is The Structure Of The Family James J. Braddock?

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The Braddock family, consisting of five boys and two girls, relocated across the Hudson River to West New York in 1930. James J. Braddock, born on June 7, 1905, was a blue-collar, Irish Catholic man who lived in a small apartment on West 48th Street. As the family grew, Joseph and Elizabeth decided to move.

The 2005 movie Cinderella Man accurately shows the Great Depression through the journey of James J. Braddock and his family during a time when there were harsh living conditions. Born into a blue-collar, Irish Catholic family, Braddock faced numerous hardships in his childhood. His family moved to the peaceful township of West New York in Hudson, where he married Mae Fox in 1930. They had three children: James (Jay) Jr., Howard, and Rosemarie.

Braddock’s boxing story, which is interwoven with the tale of his family’s survival during the Great Depression, is one of true determination. Born into a blue-collar, Irish Catholic family, Braddock was athletic as a kid and was known to throw a punch. The film “Cinderella Man” accurately portrays the changes people of the 30’s faced as the Great Depression hit and the life-changing experiences of the family.

Ron Howard’s “Cinderella Man” cast Russell Crowe as Depression-era boxer James Braddock, who enlisted in the U. S. Army in 1942 and became a first lieutenant. The film “Cinderella Man” showcases the struggles and overcames of James J. Braddock and his family during the Great Depression.

The film “Cinderella Man” highlights the themes of economic hardship, emotional distress, and family unity, as well as the resilience and determination of the Braddock family during this challenging time.

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📹 Max Baer Reveals His Opinion Of Braddock’s Chances.

(23 May 1935) CU of Max Baer speaking. Find out more about AP Archive: http://www.aparchive.com/HowWeWork Twitter: …


Who Was Jim Braddock
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Who Was Jim Braddock?

James J. Braddock, born on June 7, 1905, became a symbol of hope and resilience through his remarkable boxing career. Known as the "Cinderella Man," he achieved world heavyweight champion status from 1935 to 1937, famously defeating Max Baer in one of boxing's greatest upsets during a match on June 13, 1935. Braddock, who began his professional career in 1926 after a successful amateur stint, endured significant hardships, including a challenging period as a dockworker. On January 21, 1938, after a victory against Tommy Farr, he retired from boxing, leaving behind a legacy of nearly 100 fights and 51 wins.

After his retirement, Braddock and his manager Joe Gould enlisted in the U. S. Army in 1942 as 1st Lieutenants. The true story of his life was later depicted in Ron Howard's 2005 film "Cinderella Man," featuring Russell Crowe. Braddock's story extends beyond boxing; he was the son of Irish immigrants, illustrating the classic tale of triumph against adversity. James Walter Braddock passed away on November 29, 1974, but his impact as a sports figure and source of inspiration continues to resonate, embodying the spirit of overcoming obstacles and pursuing dreams.

Did Braddock Break His Hand
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Did Braddock Break His Hand?

Jim Braddock faced immense challenges following his early boxing success, resulting in deep depression after suffering a significant career setback and fracturing his right hand. This injury led to a dismal record of 11–20–2 in his next 33 fights. Turning professional at age 21, Braddock's initial career boasted an impressive 44–2–2 record, including 21 knockouts. A highlight came in 1928 when he achieved a stunning upset by knocking out Tuffy Griffiths.

However, after breaking his hand during a fight with Abe Feldman in 1933, he abandoned boxing, grappling with poverty while supporting his family, including his children James Jr., Howard, and Rosemarie, in a cramped basement. The onset of the Great Depression forced Braddock to work as a longshoreman, using his left hand as his right healed. Despite these hardships, he continued to fight, demonstrating resilience even with ongoing hand issues. Notably, Braddock fought with a broken hand multiple times, enduring losses and struggles that contributed to a perception of him as "washed-up" by 1933.

His fortunes changed in June 1934 when he faced Primo Carnera for the heavyweight title, marking a pivotal moment in his career. Throughout this period, Braddock battled both physical injuries and financial burdens, remaining determined to support his family amidst adversity. His journey highlights not only the trials of a boxer but also the human spirit's perseverance against daunting challenges.

Where Did The Braddock Family Live
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Where Did The Braddock Family Live?

James J. Braddock was born on June 7, 1905, in Hell's Kitchen, Manhattan, to Irish immigrant parents, Elizabeth O'Tool and Joseph Braddock. He was one of seven children and grew up in a modest environment, moving to North Bergen, New Jersey, at a young age. With five boys and two girls, the Braddock family sought a peaceful life in West New York, New Jersey. Braddock's aspirations were higher than many, aiming for success in boxing while facing significant economic hardships during the Great Depression.

The struggles of his family during this period are poignantly portrayed in the film "Cinderella Man," where Russell Crowe plays Braddock. He was forced to overcome numerous obstacles, including a lack of work opportunities and fierce competition in the boxing ring.

Braddock's training included taking his family to Sullivan County, New York, where they rented a home in North Branch. His early years in North Bergen shaped him, as he learned resilience and determination alongside his siblings. Braddock's rise to fame culminated in him becoming the world heavyweight boxing champion on June 13, 1935, after defeating Max Baer. The Braddock family's journey exemplified the struggles faced by many during that turbulent era, reflecting their hardships and eventual triumph in the face of adversity. Throughout his life, Braddock remained connected to North Hudson County, where his legacy as a champion and a symbol of hope endures.

What Did James Braddock Do For A Living
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What Did James Braddock Do For A Living?

James J. Braddock, born on June 7, 1905, in Hell's Kitchen, New York, faced immense hardship after being rendered unemployable as a fighter. Living with his wife Mae and three children in a New Jersey basement, he struggled to make ends meet by working odd jobs including dock work, bartending, and moving furniture. With debts to multiple creditors and the constant threat of poverty—exacerbated when his electricity was cut off—Braddock reluctantly accepted government relief.

Despite these challenges, he drew inspiration from the Catholic Worker Movement founded by Dorothy Day and Peter Maurin. Braddock, embodying hope for the downtrodden, returned to boxing, and on January 21, 1938, after defeating Tommy Farr, he retired from professional boxing. Rising from his dire circumstances, he became the world heavyweight champion on June 13, 1935, against Max Baer. His remarkable journey symbolized the quintessential American dream, showcasing resilience in the face of adversity.

The lessons of his life, as depicted in Ron Howard's film "Cinderella Man," highlight the values of family and perseverance. Not only a boxer, but Braddock was also a devoted husband and father, showcasing his dual commitment to his family and his sport. He later served in the military and was involved in construction, remaining a figure of hope and determination until his passing on November 29, 1974.

How Many Siblings Did James Braddock Have
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How Many Siblings Did James Braddock Have?

James J. Braddock was born on June 7, 1905, in Hell's Kitchen, New York, into a family of seven siblings, including Frank and Charles Thomas Braddock. His parents were immigrants, with his father being Anglo-Irish and his mother Irish. James pursued ambitions beyond the constraints of his upbringing, aspiring to attend the University of Notre Dame to play football, but was ultimately overlooked by Coach Knute Rockne. In his personal life, he married Mae Fox in 1930, and they had three children—James (Jay) Jr., Howard, and Rosemarie.

After marrying, the family relocated to North Bergen, New Jersey, where they raised their children. James served as a first lieutenant in the U. S. Army during World War II, specifically in the Pacific theater on Saipan, training soldiers in hand-to-hand combat. Post-war, he transitioned to work as a marine equipment surplus supplier. His daughter Rosemarie passed away in 1995, and she is survived by her husband, Kenny DeWitt, along with her daughter.

James faced financial hardships during the Great Depression, at one point needing relief assistance. In 1934, he returned to boxing, defeating John "Corn" Griffin. Throughout his boxing career, he faced prominent fighters, including Joe Louis. He garnered fame as a dedicated family man who overcame adversity, becoming an enduring symbol of resilience and determination.

Who Was James Walter Braddock
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Who Was James Walter Braddock?

James Walter Braddock, born on June 7, 1905, in Hell's Kitchen, New York City, was an American boxer who made history by becoming the world heavyweight champion from 1935 to 1937. Nicknamed "Cinderella Man," Braddock's journey to fame began on June 13, 1935, when he faced heavyweight champion Max Baer. As a 10-to-1 underdog, Braddock stunned the boxing world by outpointing Baer over 15 rounds, capturing the title and becoming a symbol of hope during the Great Depression.

Fighting professionally since 1926, Braddock initially faced challenges, including a significant loss to Tommy Loughran in 1929 for the light heavyweight title. Despite setbacks, he managed to amass a record of 52 wins, 26 losses, 7 draws, and 3 no-contests over his 11-year career, demonstrating resilience and determination. Ron Howard's film "Cinderella Man," released in 2005, further popularized Braddock's inspiring story, showcasing his rise from a struggling dockworker to a boxing champion.

Braddock's reign came to an end when he lost to Joe Louis in 1937, but his legacy remained. He embodied the spirit of the era, illustrating how perseverance and courage could triumph against adversity. James J. Braddock's life journey continues to inspire many.

Why Does Braddock Become Upset When He Finds Out His Wife Sent The Kids Away
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Why Does Braddock Become Upset When He Finds Out His Wife Sent The Kids Away?

Braddock feels intense upset upon learning that his wife has sent their children to her family, as this decision symbolizes a loss of control and threatens the integrity of the family unit he cherishes. His agitation stems from a promise made to his son, vowing that he would never send them away, which intensifies his emotional turmoil. This situation propels Braddock to return to boxing, striving to regain financial stability and bring his children back home.

After enduring difficult days working at the docks, Braddock confides in his co-worker, Mike Wilson, about the grim realities of the Great Depression. Their discussions reflect shared sentiments regarding their struggles, yet Braddock's resolve intensifies when considering his family's welfare. He recognizes that the motivation behind his determination to fight comes from his love for his children, who become his driving force throughout adversity.

The interplay between Braddock’s commitment to his family and the economic hardships faced during this era highlights the emotional stakes of his situation. Jim’s promise to his son becomes a pivotal aspect of his character, serving not only as a source of guilt but also as motivation to reclaim his family's unity. Ultimately, Braddock's strong reputation is shaped by his fierce dedication to his family, leading him to fight boldly for their reunion and well-being.

Why Does Braddock'S Son Steal The Salami
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Why Does Braddock'S Son Steal The Salami?

Jimmy's son steals salami because he believes his family lacks enough money for food, driven by desperation and fear of being separated from his family. After the incident, his father, James Braddock, makes him return the stolen salami to the butcher, emphasizing the importance of honesty. Braddock promises his son that he will never be sent away, reassuring him amidst their dire circumstances. The boy's actions reflect a deep-seated anxiety; he recalls a friend who was taken away by his parents due to hunger and poverty.

Following an injury to his hand while boxing, Braddock must find alternative ways to earn money for his family, including working at the docks. The family's living conditions have drastically changed since the 1920s, highlighting their struggle for basic physiological needs. The film poignantly addresses ethical dilemmas surrounding theft in dire situations, leaving viewers to reflect on whether they would make similar choices under such pressure.

Braddock helps his son understand the wrongness of stealing, reinforcing their family values in a challenging time. This scene illustrates the sacrifices parents make, as Braddock gives up his own food to ensure his children are fed, despite his own hardships. The narrative of the Braddock family encapsulates the struggles of maintaining dignity and integrity amid extreme poverty during the Great Depression.

What Does Joe'S Wife Say To Mae
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What Does Joe'S Wife Say To Mae?

When Joe leaves the room, Joe's wife speaks to Mae about the difficult realities women faced during the Great Depression. Mae learns that Joe has sold all their furniture to support James's training, highlighting the desperate measures families had to take due to financial strain. Joe's wife conveys the prevailing sentiment of the era, stating that women must allow men to fulfill their roles and responsibilities. This reflects the societal expectations placed upon women during that time, where they were often expected to remain passive while men navigated the struggles of work and family responsibilities.

The discussion underscores the emotional toll and strain that the Great Depression inflicted on families, as well as the sacrifices made by individuals in pursuit of survival and hope for a better future. Mae's confrontation with Joe reveals his distress as a direct consequence of these hardships, illustrating how deeply the economic crisis impacted personal lives and relationships. In summary, Joe’s wife's comments to Mae encapsulate the broader sentiment of the era, emphasizing the need for women to step back and let men take charge as they faced the overwhelming challenges that characterized the Great Depression.

How Did Braddock Get His Name
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How Did Braddock Get His Name?

The film featuring Russell Crowe is titled after James J. Braddock's nickname, "Cinderella Man," which was assigned by journalist Damon Runyon, highlighting Braddock's remarkable journey from rags to riches. The narrative emphasizes the supportive roles of Braddock's wife, Mae (played by Renée Zellweger), and his long-time manager and friend, Joe Gould (Paul Giamatti). Braddock, born James Walter Braddock (June 7, 1905 – November 29, 1974), was the world heavyweight champion from 1935 to 1937 and adopted the name James J.

to emulate prior champions like James J. Corbett and James J. Jeffries. Known for his counterpunching style and formidable right hand, he earned the nickname through his inspiring ascent from poverty to champion status. After defeating Tommy Farr on January 21, 1938, Braddock retired from boxing, reflecting the aspirations of many during his time. Despite his losses, including the defeat against Joe Louis, Braddock remained a beloved figure, respected for his bravery and dedication, earning accolades that include induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2001.

His story resonates as an embodiment of hope and resilience, symbolizing the struggles of working-class America during the 1930s. The name "Braddock" itself originates from Old English, suggesting a connection to nature—a "broad oak." This duality in his identity, both as a fighter and as a man connected to his roots, contributes to the lasting legacy of "The Cinderella Man."

How Many Men Did Braddock Have
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How Many Men Did Braddock Have?

In 1755, British General Edward Braddock led an expedition to attack Fort Duquesne, aiming to capture it from the French in North America. He gathered approximately 2, 400 men, including British regulars and colonial troops. After disembarking at Alexandria, Virginia, and consolidating forces with local militia and Native Americans, Braddock formed a "flying column" of around 1, 300 men to move swiftly towards the fort. On July 9, 1755, near the Monongahela River, Braddock's leading troops were ambushed by a combined force of 254 French and 600 Native Americans.

The attack led to significant casualties, with Braddock’s force suffering 878 out of 1, 466 in losses; 456 were killed including 63 officers, while another 422 were wounded. Despite deploying flankers for protection, confusion ensued among his men due to war cries, resulting in disorder as they retreated. Braddock’s ambitions ended without achieving proximity to Fort Duquesne, which had a lasting impact on military strategy in the region.

The encounter profoundly shocked contemporaries, including a young George Washington, and ultimately contributed to escalating conflicts in the French and Indian War. Braddock's failed expedition is a noteworthy moment in early American military history.


📹 ‘Cinderella Man – The Real Jim Braddock Story’

Documentary about World Heavyweight Champion James J. Braddock. : jimmy braddock documentary james braddock cinderella …


Freya Gardon

Hi, I’m Freya Gardon, a Collaborative Family Lawyer with nearly a decade of experience at the Brisbane Family Law Centre. Over the years, I’ve embraced diverse roles—from lawyer and content writer to automation bot builder and legal product developer—all while maintaining a fresh and empathetic approach to family law. Currently in my final year of Psychology at the University of Wollongong, I’m excited to blend these skills to assist clients in innovative ways. I’m passionate about working with a team that thinks differently, and I bring that same creativity and sincerity to my blog about family law.

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11 comments

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  • Max Baer was a very funny man. He loved to make people laugh. When asked what happened in the Joe Louis fight, he said, “I forgot to duck!” When he died he was staying in a hotel room, he was having a heart attack so he called the front desk for a doctor, the desk clerk said, “Do you want a house doctor?” Max replied, “No, I want a people doctor!”

  • Max was a very easy going and fun loving man. His gracious description of Jimmy Braddock and Joe Louis reveals the deep depth of humility Max had. Max was “NOTHING” like the sadistic and brutal character portrayed in the Ron Howard Movie, Cinderella Man. Ron Howard should have researched his boxing historical material better before making his movie. All boxing history students were aware of the very likable personality in the “real” Max Baer, and the movie made Max a monster, something he was NOT!

  • Max had horrible nightmares about killing Frankie Campbell. His wife and kids said that he would cry and weep for hours at night. It was also said that he had a small nervous breakdown from killing 2 people. Most people don’t know that Max spent time in prison because of killing Frankie Campbell. It was a different time back then. And yes Ron Howard caught a ton of crap for portraying Max in this light. His son the also famous actor Max Baer jr. AKA Jethro Bodine was very angry about it knowing how his father suffered from killing 2 fighters. Another unknown fact was that Max Baer was fighting Jimmy Braddock with a broken hand

  • WTF!? This is not the Max Baer the movie made him out to be. I’ve seen the movie so many times and it WAS one of my all-time favorites. After seeing the real Max Baer, I can no longer say that it is still one of my favorites. The movie was nothing but a lie! Just makes you wonder how many millions of other people who’ve seen the movie will go on for the rest of their lives never knowing how the real Max was actually a good guy. It’s really messed up.

  • Long before boxers like Emanuel Augustus or Naseem Hamed used to clown in the ring, well before Adrien “the Problem” Broner spawned more kids than he could support (even while racking up seven-figure fight purses), there was Max Baer, the original clown prince of boxing. Baer was movie star handsome, quick-witted, and actually had legitimate acting chops (I remember seeing him Humphrey Bogart’s last vehicle, “The Harder they fall,” and being impressed with him). Like many greats, Baer killed a man early in his career, and the specter of his felled opponent hung over the remainder of his days like a cloud. Depending on who you ask, Baer was also the first Jewish heavyweight champion of the world.

  • I understand why people don’t like how Cinderella Man portrayed him as a murderous vile being. That said, he was mean in the ring and a bit of a showboat. Some greats in the early to mid-20th century, they were gentlemen out of their sport and killers in the sport. I think of Dick Butkus in football. The movie just doesn’t show his good nature side for the fact that it isn’t about him…though they did have to have a villian.

  • He was depicted to be a bad guy in Cinderella Man – but Baer actually was more heroic than James Braddock. I also respect Jim Braddock and find his comeback story truly inspirational – but in terms of overall impact during those times – Baer actually beat Max Schmeling at Yankee Stadium. Schmeling was Hitler’s favorite fighter!!! Baer who is half Jewish was a symbol of victory over German fascism tthat time.

  • One of the kindest most sensitive champions, Max Baer deserved better than his portrayal in Cinderella man. They twisted him into a villain for literary reasons but why? There was no need for it. The talent, size, and strength advantage were all in Baers favor. His good lighthearted sense of humor juxtaposed against his brute leverage behind his punching in the ring already make for an interesting character and mountain for Braddock to climb.. There was no need to make Baer appear evil when in fact he was a kind person like Dempsey Lo😊uis and Marciano

  • Yeah I watched Cinderella Man again yesterday, love that movie. But I am wondering Why Ron Howard (director) portrayed Max as being the meanest boxer of all. I also read that 2 boxers did die in after the fights with Max. Campbell died I guess about an hour after the fight with Max, and Max was crying uncontrollably it says on Baer’s website put up by Max’s family and Max Baer Jr. Also it says that Max took care of Campbell’s family financially because he had a wife and kids. So sad though and kind of ticks me off that they made Max look to be a bad guy!! I myself was a boxer in the 70’s and did it for 6 years, almost went to Golden Gloves. But I got a bad concussion right before the tournament and had to quit boxing. Was a skinny runt, a whopping 165 pounds, Middleweight.

  • I appreciate the comments here. I became confused after seeing the movie and then perusal the actual fight; the latter of which seemed to show no malice; a boring fight but two guys with dangerous right hands. Braddock did a great job of hanging in there the one round where Baer caught him; unlike the movie that was more like Rocky Balboa and Clubber Lang. Now Braddock-Lewis was a real rockem sockem. Reminded me of Tyson- Hollyfield 1 except a shorter bout.

  • I generally agree with these comments. Max seems nice and well spoken in this interview. That said, he killed at least one guy in the ring (maybe two on a delayed basis) and he allowed his team to use the first death as part of his publicity. Life was different in 1930, harsher, Darwinian. But, I prefer the reaction of Trooper Thorn in Quiet Man. If you kill somebody as part of your job and then you use the death to burnish your brand you are not a classic nice guy as I would define the term. The movie did not portray him fairly, but maybe not as unfairly as some suggest here. Hey, I liked Jethro too.

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