Christianity, Race, and Sport

This book explores the relationship between Christianity, race, and sport in the United States, highlighting how Protestant Christianity and race have interacted, often to the detriment of Black bodies, throughout the sporting world. It discusses important sporting figures and case studies, such as Jackie Robinson, Muhammad Ali, George Foreman, Serena Williams, and Colin Kaepernick, and is essential reading for undergraduate students and those working in the sociology of sport, sport studies, history of sport, or philosophy of sport.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 132 pages
\n Publication date: 31 May 2021
\n Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
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This comprehensive book delves into the intricate relationship between Christianity, race, and sport in the United States, offering a meticulously researched introduction to this complex subject matter. Through a thorough examination of the historical interactions between Protestant Christianity and race, the book sheds light on how these two forces have often intersected, resulting in harm to Black bodies within the sporting world.

The book explores a range of significant sporting figures and case studies, highlighting the ways in which religion and race have shaped their experiences and careers. Some of the key topics discussed include:

Sanctification of Baseball Player Jackie Robinson: The book discusses the groundbreaking moment when Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in baseball, becoming the first Black player to play in the Major League. It explores how Robinson's religious beliefs and his commitment to civil rights played a crucial role in his ability to overcome discrimination and pave the way for future generations of Black athletes.

Domestication of Muhammad Ali and George Foreman: The book examines how religion and race shaped the careers of Muhammad Ali and George Foreman, two of the most iconic boxers of the 20th century. It explores how their religious beliefs and their commitment to their faith contributed to their success in the ring and their impact on the broader society.

Religious Expressions of Athletes in the NFL: The book explores the ways in which athletes in the National Football League (NFL) express their religious beliefs and practices on the field. It discusses the challenges that athletes face in reconciling their religious convictions with the demands of professional football and the impact that their religious expressions have on their fans and the broader community.

Treatment of African American Tennis Player Serena Williams: The book discusses the treatment of African American tennis player Serena Williams, highlighting the racial and gender biases that she has faced throughout her career. It explores how her religious beliefs and her commitment to social justice have influenced her activism and her advocacy for equality in sports.

Colin Kaepernick and His Prophetic Voice: The book discusses the controversial figure of Colin Kaepernick, the former NFL quarterback who began kneeling during the national anthem to protest racial injustice and police brutality. It explores how Kaepernick's religious beliefs and his commitment to social justice have shaped his activism and his impact on the broader society.

This accessible and conversational book is an essential reading for undergraduate students approaching religion and race or religion and sport for the first time. It also serves as a valuable resource for those working within the sociology of sport, sport studies, history of sport, or philosophy of sport. By examining the complex interplay between Christianity, race, and sport, the book provides a deeper understanding of the historical and contemporary challenges faced by Black athletes and their communities.

In conclusion, Christianity, Race, and Sport offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the relationship between these three powerful forces in American society. Through its engaging narrative and rigorous analysis, the book provides valuable insights into the historical and contemporary challenges faced by Black athletes and their communities. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of religion, race, and sport in the United States.

\n Weight: 226g\n
Dimension: 151 x 230 x 16 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780367313302\n \n