"This complete history of the Negro Leagues begins in the second half of the nineteenth century, discussing the early attempts by African American players to be allowed to play with white teammates and progressing through the creation of the "Gentleman's Agreement" in the 1890s that kept baseball segregated. It then discusses the establishment of the first successful Negro League in 1920 and examines various aspects of the game for the players (travel accommodations, families, off-season jobs, play and life in Latin America, racial difficulties). The history ends in 1960, when the Birmingham Black Barons went out of business and took the Negro Leagues with them.

Also included are stories of individual players, owners, umpires, and others involved with the Negro Leagues in the United States and in Latin America."--Jacket.