1860’s BaseballAmerican Baseball HistoryArvada West Senior High

Thomson

1860’s Baseball

Pace of life has quickened

Public schools institutionalized

Self-control emphasized

Baseball was a release, but it was a self-controlled release: Restrain players by rules Try to curb drinking and gambling No foul language on field

1860’s Baseball

Umpires: Given a more responsible position Expected to control the game Vulnerable to fans and players Control the code of morality

1860’s Baseball

Women: Large numbers attending baseball games Worries the established male regime of

baseball

1860’s Baseball

Concerned with the “manliness” of the game: Promoted baseball as a “man’s game”, so

that men do not seem boyish Trying to make baseball come off as an adult

game “Manly exercise” Baseball is a substitute for sexual needs

1860’s Baseball

19th Century: Not friendly with England Cricket is being disposed of and replaced by

baseball

1860’s Baseball

Quality of the Game Players now are better than past players Base runners can now take leads Left handed first basemen Long ball? Very few homeruns Pitchers starting to vary their speed:

Curveballs – Candy Cummings