Why Baseball Is America's Pastime

There is no question that in American society baseball is America’s pastime. Although, most American’s would argue that football has taken over as the most popular sport in America. But for those who truly admire the game, like me, would absolutely disagree. Watching two rival teams duel it out from the first pitch to the last, or a pitcher going for a no-hitter, nothing is more exciting. ''Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball,'' Jacques Barzun, the social commentator, wrote more than a quarter of a century ago. To better understand baseball you must understand its beginnings. Its exact origins are somewhat of a debate among people. Some say that it’s a mix between cricket and rounders, two games that …show more content…
It allowed for more people to take part in the game, it brought together people of different race, sex and social class. Baseball, like America, became a melting pot. In 1947, the Brooklyn Dodgers, started Jackie Robinson at first base. Jackie Robinson was the first African American to play on a team outside of the Negro League. Because of this, those who only played for the Negro Leagues were now able to play on any team. As Jackie Robinson said; “Baseball contributed to the racial and social integration, and acts as a “social glue” that helps bind our society together.” Baseball also opened the door for woman to play in professional leagues. During World War II, baseball players were forced to join the army. Many found it to be unfair for them to be at home playing a game, while others were dying on the battlefield. So, woman filled their spots out on the diamond; the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League existed from …show more content…
Field of Dreams, A League of Their Own, The Natural; to name a few. I believe it’s because baseball reminds of us of a simpler time. Thinking back on my childhood; my summer days were spent at the ball park, watching my brother play. There is a comforting feeling about watching baseball, and I think it’s because we relate it to our siblings, parents, cousins; it’s a family event. It’s a family tradition that is passed down from generation to generation. Essentially, you inherit your family’s team when you’re born. I was born into a San Diego Padres family; then married into a San Francisco Giants family. Baseball is a staple of our childhood; getting together with our friends and playing on our makeshift baseball diamond; throwing pop-ups and trying to hit grand slams. Not to mention it’s an affordable sport to attend, unlike the NFL or NBA; a whole family can go to a ballpark and not “break the bank” in doing