West Ham United: From East End Family to Globalised Fandom

The book "West Ham United: From East End Family to Globalised Fandom" explores the evolution of West Ham, from a works football team to a global brand with supporters worldwide. It examines how the club's identity has changed over time and its impact on its fan base.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 21 March 2022
Publisher: Pitch Publishing Ltd

West Ham United: From East End Family to Globalised Fandom is a captivating journey that traces the evolution of one of English football's most iconic clubs. It explores how a humble works football team from the East End of London transformed itself into a symbol of the working classes, only to undergo a remarkable transformation in the late 20th and early 21st centuries into a global brand with supporters scattered across every corner of the Earth.

The story begins with the Thames Ironworks Ltd works team, which later became West Ham United in 1900, just before relocating to the Boleyn Ground in Upton Park. For nearly a century, the club was passionately supported by local working-class men from across the East End, forming a tight-knit community that shared a deep love for the game. However, a series of profound economic, social, cultural, geographical, and technological changes gradually broadened West Ham's fanbase beyond the boundaries of London.

To understand this remarkable phenomenon, the book conducts extensive surveys of West Ham United fan groups worldwide. It seeks to unravel the significance of the club for those who originally hailed from the East End, as well as for those who have no personal connection to the area. Through these surveys, the book offers a unique insight into the emotional bond that connects West Ham's supporters to their beloved club, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.

West Ham United's journey from a local team to a global phenomenon is a testament to the power of football and the enduring spirit of the fans. It serves as a reminder that sports can bring people together, bridge gaps, and create a sense of belonging that transcends boundaries. Whether you are a lifelong supporter from the East End or a new fan drawn to the club's unique charm, West Ham United: From East End Family to Globalised Fandom offers a captivating exploration of the club's rich history and its profound impact on the world of football.

Weight: 508g
Dimension: 146 x 223 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781801500685