Sports in America from Colonial Times to the Twenty-First Century: An Encyclopedia

A unique new reference work, this encyclopedia presents a social, cultural, and economic history of American sports from hunting, bowling, and skating in the sixteenth century to televised professional sports and the X Games today. Nearly 400 articles examine historical and cultural aspects of leagues, teams, institutions, major competitions, the media and other related industries, as well as legal and social issues, economic factors, ethnic and racial participation, and the growth of institutions and venues. Also included are biographical entries on notable individualsnot just outstanding athletes, but owners and promoters, journalists and broadcasters, and innovators of other kindsalong with in-depth entries on the history of major and minor sports from air racing and archery to wrestling and yachting. A detailed chronology, master bibliography, and directory of institutions, organizations, and governing bodiesplus more than 100 vintage and contemporary photographsround out the coverage.