American Sports in the 1930's
A flashback to college and professional sports in the 1930's
Introduction
In the 1930's sports, like many aspects of American life, were effected by the great depression. However, the depression had a positive effect on college and professional sports. Sports such as baseball, football, basketball and hockey provided an escape from everyday American problems for spectators and fans. Stadiums, fields, and arenas attracted fans to games with inexpensive tickets, food, and contest prizes like groceries and cash. Radios were inexpensive and affordable so many Americans could enjoy listening to games and sporting events in the comfort of their homes. Also, in 1935 the first nighttime baseball game was played in Cincinnati making it possible for daytime workers to watch games after work. One of the most iconic boxing fights in world history also took place in the 30's when Joe Louis defeated Max Schmeling in a virtual USA vs Germany pre WWII fight in the ring.
The NFL in the 1930's
The Green Bay packers won four nfl championships in the 1930's lead by head coach Curly Lambeau and wide receiver Don Hutson.
MLB in the 1930's
The New York Yankees owned the 1930's winning five world series championships behind sluggers Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Joe DiMaggio.
The NHL in the 1930's
The Detroit Red Wings, Montreal Canadiens, and Chicago Blackhawks each won two stanley cups in the decade of the 1930's.
Basketball in the 1930's
College basketball flourished in the 30's, with the first collegiate tournament being held in Kansas City Missouri. The teams that played in this tournament were from the mid west, even though most college basketball teams were from the east coast. The NBA did not exist in the 1930's, but company run teams and semi pro teams played basketball in this decade. Professional basketball struggled in the 1930's due to the great depression. Some popular teams in the 30's included the Boston Celtics and the Harlem globetrotters.
MLB in the 1930's
Major League Baseball in the 1930's saw many records set and many historical players play the game. To many, the 1930's was the golden age of baseball. The New York Yankees were the team of the decade with star sluggers Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Joe DiMaggio. The Detroit Tigers also won a championship in 1935 with stars Hank Greenberg at first base, and Charlie Gehringer at second base.
The NFL and NHL in the 1930's
The Green Bay Packers were the star team of the 1930's in the NFL. The Packers were lead by head coach Curly Lambeau and star wide receiver Don Hutson. The Detroit Red wings, Montreal Canadiens, and Chicago Blackhawks were the dominate teams of the 30's in the NHL. Each of these franchises won two Stanley Cups in the decade of the 1930's.