The National Pastime: Baseball in America

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to the evolution of baseball as America's national pastime, including its historical context, professionalization, and the dynamics between players and owners.

National Pastime

Baseball is considered America's national pastime, reflecting its cultural significance.

Cincinnati Red Stockings

The first openly professional baseball team, established in 1867, known for its success and commercial approach.

• used the transatlantic railroad to play in California

• Profited only $1.25 in the first year

Players' National League

A league created by players in 1890 to challenge the existing power of team owners and improve working conditions.

Killing Cricket

The concept of making baseball a uniquely American game, distinct from English cricket.

The New York Knickerbockers

The first organized baseball team, established in 1842, and significant for early baseball development.

• social organization (young men)

• middle class, worked in an office

• balls were soft

Reserve Rule

A rule established in 1879 that restricted players from joining other teams, seen as detrimental to player rights.

American Exceptionalism

The belief that America has a unique role and identity, particularly reflected in its sports.

• Americans wanted their own identity

Albert Goodwill Spalding

A key promoter and organizer of baseball, founder of the Spalding sporting goods company, and influential in the National League.

Professionalism in Baseball

The transformation of baseball into a commercial sport with paid players following the Civil War.

Baseball vs Cricket

The competition between baseball and cricket for popularity in America, with baseball ultimately prevailing.

• American Exceptionalism

Urbanization

The process that influenced baseball's development as people moved to cities and sought entertainment.

Labor Conflict

Struggles between laborers and big businesses, mirrored in the disputes between baseball players and team owners.

Nine players

The standard number of players on a baseball team, established in the rules of early baseball.

Foul Territory

The out-of-bounds area in baseball where balls hit are not in play.

Commercialization of Sports

The process where sports began to be treated as businesses, generating profit and organized management.

A Little Pretty Pocket-book

• 1774

• A book illustrating rules of a game like baseball in England