Lexington Books Sport and the Shaping of Civic Identity in Chicago (Sport, Identity, and Culture)

This study uses sociological and historical methodologies to analyze the role of sport in the formation of urban identity in Chicago. The author traces the transformation of Chicago from a frontier town to a commercial behemoth, examining its role as an immigration, transportation, and entertainment hub. The author argues that, as a pioneering leader in American sport history, Chicago allowed teams and athletes to forge a unique national and global identity. This thorough and well-researched study makes a major contribution to debates on the social and psychological functions of sport culture. Review This latest study by Gerald R. Gems provides readers with his usual excellent research and writing. Gems gives in-depth analysis of what sports have meant to both the city of Chicago and its varied inhabitants, scrutinizing how all manner of athletic undertakings have impacted a variety of racial, ethnic, and religious groups. This study shows not only how Chicago's sport culture has brought communities together, but also how it has shaped local identities and contributed to the construction of civic space. This book should serve as a model for any study of a large metropolitan area's relationship with all levels of sport for years to come.--Jorge Iber, Texas Tech UniversityThis study compellingly analyzes how sports are inextricably woven into Chicago's cultural and political fabric. Gems provides outstanding and uniquely creative research that extends from the city's origins to the present day. If anyone hopes to fully understand how Chicago's rich sport history connects with ethnicity, class, race, gender, and educational institutions, this book is essential reading.--Robert C. Trumpbour, Pennsylvania State UniversityThis study takes the reader through the domains of race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender, education, culture, occupation, and socialization preferences--and with extensive research and documentation delves into how the formal and informal use of sport has brought extremely divided entities together in a sense of civility and unity, even if only for a brief time. This work is a must-read for the sports enthusiast, researchers, professionals, and anyone seeking a better understanding of the role and impact that sport has, and can play in a free society. While Chicago is the research grounds for this work, the implication for studies of other municipalities looms large for other scholars to emulate.--James R. Coates, University of Wisconsin at Green Bay About the Author Gerald R. Gems is professor emeritus at North Central College.