The Rise of Baseball: From Local Pastime to National Obsession
Baseball’s journey to becoming America’s pastime began in the 19th century, when it evolved from various bat-and-ball games played by immigrants and locals into a more structured sport. The establishment of formal rules and the formation of professional leagues, such as the National League in 1876, played a pivotal role in its rise. The sport’s popularity soared with the help of key figures like Babe Ruth, whose charismatic personality and remarkable talent captured the public’s imagination, and radio broadcasts, which brought the excitement of games into living rooms across the nation.
The sport’s reach continued to expand throughout the 20th century, thanks in part to the integration of African American players and the advent of television, which broadened its audience. Baseball’s enduring appeal is rooted in its rich history, regional traditions, and the sense of community it fosters. Today, its legacy is cemented not only in the United States but also internationally, as Major League Baseball’s global outreach continues to cultivate new generations of fans and players worldwide.