Chapter 18 Flashcards
Who was Satchel Paige?
One of the greatest baseball pitchers in history, known for his speed, control, creativity, and charisma, but excluded from the major leagues during his prime due to racial segregation.
Why didn’t Satchel Paige play in the major leagues during his prime?
Because of the racial caste system in the U.S., Major League Baseball was segregated and excluded Black players until 1946.
What is an example of Paige’s extraordinary talent?
He could knock lit cigarettes out of teammates’ mouths with his fastball, and Joe DiMaggio called him the best pitcher he ever faced.
What effect did the caste system have on Paige’s career?
It robbed him of the opportunity to compete at the highest level during his peak, limiting his exposure, recognition, and impact.
When did Satchel Paige finally enter the major leagues, and with which team?
In 1948, at age 42, with the Cleveland Indians—making him the oldest rookie in MLB history.
What notable accomplishment did Paige achieve in 1948?
He pitched a shutout game that helped the Cleveland Indians win the American League pennant and become the first Black pitcher in a World Series.
How did caste logic harm more than just Satchel Paige?
It hurt the entire sport of baseball by excluding one of its best players, potentially changing outcomes of games, seasons, and profits.
How was Paige used by the Kansas City Athletics in 1965?
As a publicity stunt, pitching at age 59—but he threw three scoreless innings, proving he still had talent.
What does Satchel Paige’s story reveal about the caste system in America?
That caste is so illogical and entrenched it forces institutions to sacrifice their own excellence and potential just to preserve hierarchy.
What larger societal lesson does Wilkerson draw from Paige’s story?
Caste systems harm everyone—not just the oppressed—by denying talent and progress when it comes from the subordinated caste.
