Clash of the Little Giants: George Dixon, Terry McGovern and the Culture of Boxing in America, 1890-1910

In the late 1890s, George Dixon and Terry McGovern were famous boxing rivals, and their 1900 featherweight bout is considered the most significant in history. Both men were products of a burgeoning industrial society and a cult of masculinity, and the fight was heavily bet on. This book explores the story with a cast of characters including manager/promoter Tom O'Rourke, World Welterweight Champion Barbados Joe Walcott, and Tammany Hall bigwig Timothy Big Tim Sullivan.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 30 October 2022
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

In the late 1890s, boxing enjoyed immense popularity, rivaling the likes of baseball. Among the most renowned boxers of that era were George Dixon and Terry McGovern. Their paths crossed in 1900, in what is widely regarded as the most significant featherweight bout in history. Tragically, both men met untimely deaths under distressing circumstances. They hailed from a burgeoning industrial society and a culture that celebrated masculinity, a time when prizefighting was a contentious sport, with supporters and opponents engaged in a constant tug-of-war. The anticipation for the championship fight was immense, with heavy betting taking place.

This book delves into the rich tapestry of the era, introducing a diverse cast of characters. Notable among them are infamous manager/promoter Tom O Rourke, World Welterweight Champion Barbados Joe Walcott, and Tammany Hall bigwig Timothy Big Tim Sullivan. Sullivan, known for his invisible hand, played a pivotal role in making New York the epicenter of boxing during the 1890s.

Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, this book offers a comprehensive account of the era, shedding light on the lives and careers of George Dixon and Terry McGovern, as well as the broader context of boxing during that time. It explores the social, cultural, and political factors that shaped the sport and the impact it had on the lives of its participants and fans. Whether you are a boxing enthusiast or a history buff, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the fascinating world of prizefighting in the late 1890s.

Weight: 363g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476688732