Why was it believed that Abner Doubleday invented baseball?
The belief that Abner Doubleday invented baseball is a myth that originated in the early 20th century. Despite being widely accepted for decades, this claim has been thoroughly debunked by historians. The true origins of baseball are much more complex and uncertain.
The Doubleday myth gained traction due to a combination of factors. In 1903, the Mills Commission, a group appointed by the sporting goods industry, declared that Doubleday had "invented" the game in Cooperstown, New York, in 1839. This gave the myth official status, and it was quickly embraced by the public.
However, subsequent research has shown that the Mills Commission's finding was based on weak evidence and hearsay. Baseball had been played in various forms for decades before 1839, and there is no credible proof that Doubleday played any significant role in its development.
The myth of Doubleday's invention persisted for several reasons. It provided a convenient and patriotic narrative for the origin of America's favorite pastime. It also helped establish Cooperstown as the birthplace of baseball, which has since become a major tourist attraction.
Today, the myth of Abner Doubleday's invention is largely discredited by historians. Baseball's true origins remain a matter of debate, but it is clear that it evolved from a series of earlier games and traditions.
Related Questions and Brief Answers:
- When was the myth of Abner Doubleday's invention of baseball created? In the early 20th century
- Who appointed the Mills Commission? The sporting goods industry
- How old was baseball purportedly invented by Doubleday? 59
- Why was the myth of Doubleday's invention appealing? To give baseball's origins, a patriotic narrative
- What sport was baseball purportedly derived from? Cricket
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