Baseball is born Rounders Originated in England in the 1600s. Differences between rounders and baseball. Many people think Abner Doubleday invented baseball in 1839. Doubleday's friend, Graves, claimed he was a witness. A commission credited Doubleday with inventing the game.
Historians say theory is bogus.
Baseball becomes popular Interest soars after 1900 Kids' favorite warm-weather sport. Crowds follow pennant races and World Series. Star players become national heroes. Hits more and longer home runs than anyone before. Other heroes Lou Gehrig.