Anti trust people vs monopolists. The market theory of Adam Smith is not allowed to work if monopolists are allowed to run free. Unions bring equality of bargaining power to the negotiating table. There is an increase in wealth caused by improved farming, industrial revolution, and ethic that justifies accumulation of wealth. This leads to people having the funds to participate in sports.
Funds remain a barrier to participation.
The growth of leisure time leading to more sports participation and more time to watch sport. Class distinctions in sport, class conflict played out as sport. Rich man's vs poor man's sports. Sport as a means of social mobility for lower classes. The banker and the janitor sitting together and cheering for the same team.