A Mini-history of Latin America and Professional Baseball

Abstract

Like the US, Latin American countries were initially ruled by colonial powers who imported slaves from Africa to support their economies. The Europeans who resided in Latin America tended to be situated in the top level of a social stratification system that disadvantaged indigenous people and Africans. The end of slavery in Latin America failed to provide equality for Afro-descendants. However, through the years, the widespread mixing of the various groups in Latin America blurred distinctions between races and ethnicities. Baseball first evolved as a professional sport in the US and then spread to Cuba and select other countries in Latin America during the latter half of the nineteenth century. The game was disseminated by Latin American students attending US colleges, as well as contacts made during wars, and business encounters. In Cuba, baseball was associated with its struggle for independence from Spain. In every country in Latin America where baseball is played, it has become a vital part of life and culture.