"This text gives readers the chance to experience the unique character and personalities of the African American game of baseball in the United States, starting from the time of slavery, through the Negro Leagues and integration period, and beyond"-- Provided by publisher.

Includes index.

Baseball, and something more besides -- Coming to bat in Sundown baseball -- The beginnings: 19th-century blackball -- The age of great players playing for great independent teams, 1900-1920 -- "New Negroes" in the midst of American sport's golden age, 1920-1930 -- The "New Negro" as baseball player, 1920-1930 -- Hard times for America and for blackball, 1930-1940 -- The seasons of change, 1940-1947 -- A history that is lost? Stolen? Strayed?, 1947-present.