Baseball

This newly expanded and updated (2000-present day) single-volume book not only chronicles the history of baseball but conveys, through discussions of baseball's relationship to American culture, a vivid portrait of baseball as America's national pastime.

Baseball and its star players always receive regular attention by news and media. Baseball is, after all, "America's national pastime," and as such is fully and firmly embedded in the popular culture of the nation-so much so that throughout history, American culture and identity is often reflected in the happenings of the sport of baseball.



Now thoroughly updated and with numerous additional entries, Baseball: An Encyclopedia of Popular Culture provides a resource that documents how baseball evolved along with American society and culture, spotlights the accomplishments and influence of the game's all-time greats, examines the fallout of scandals regarding performance-enhancing drugs and player misconduct, and addresses how modern technology has impacted every aspect of the game from the way it is played, analyzed, and covered by the media. The entries address subjects that range from the early days of baseball in the 19th century to the current events and developments of the 21st century.


* Provides fascinating information about the history of baseball ranging from the game's origins to the present day

* Identifies the obvious and subtle ways in which baseball has influenced American culture as well as the impact that American history and culture have had on the development of baseball

* Discusses many of baseball's greatest and most controversial stars past and present and their influence on both the game of baseball and American popular culture