Hank Aaron

The outfielder defied threats to break Babe Ruth’s home run record and never forgot the jeers he received while playing in the South during the days of segregation.

Campanella awaits the throw.

Hall of Famer and 21-time MLB All-Star Hank Aaron, whom many baseball fans still consider to be the game's true home run king — his 755 career home runs is second only to Barry Bonds' 762 — turned 83 years old on Feb. 5, 2017. In celebration of Hammerin' Hank's 83rd birthday, we present SI's 44 best photos of No. 44 through the years.

Hall of Famer and 21-time MLB All-Star Hank Aaron, whom many baseball fans still consider to be the game's true home run king — his 755 career home runs is second only to Barry Bonds' 762 — turned 83 years old on Feb. 5, 2017. In celebration of Hammerin' Hank's 83rd birthday, we present SI's 44 best photos of No. 44 through the years.

Hank Aaron

Pic: Happy 79th Birthday, Hammerin’ Hank!

Baseball Hall of Famers have passed with heartbreaking frequency in the past year-plus. But Aaron’s death hits home differently. The sorrow is deeper, more raw. To kids who discovered the...