George Herman "Babe" Ruth Jr., widely regarded as one of the greatest baseball players of all time, left an indelible mark on the sport. His impressive career, which spanned from 1914 to 1935, was filled with numerous records, achievements, and a larger-than-life personality that captivated fans across the United States. While many are familiar with his impressive home run records and charismatic persona, there are several aspects of his life and career that remain lesser-known. Here are 10 things you may not know about Babe Ruth, offering a deeper dive into the life of this baseball legend.
1. Early Life and Education
Babe Ruth was born on February 6, 1895, in Baltimore, Maryland, to Kate and George Herman Ruth Sr. His early life was marked by poverty and instability, with his parents sending him to St. Mary's Industrial School for Boys, a Catholic orphanage and reform school, at the age of 7. It was here that he was introduced to baseball by Brother Matthias, a Catholic brother who became a significant figure in Ruth's early life.
2. The Start of His Career
Ruth began his professional baseball career as a left-handed pitcher for the Boston Red Sox in 1914. He quickly gained recognition for his pitching skills, helping the Red Sox win three World Series championships. However, it was his transition to the New York Yankees in 1920 that catapulted him to fame, not as a pitcher, but as an outfielder and power hitter.
3. The Home Run King
Babe Ruth is famously known for setting the single-season home run record in 1927 with 60 home runs, a record that stood for nearly 40 years. His career was marked by numerous home runs, earning him the nickname "The Sultan of Swat." He finished his career with 714 home runs, a record that stood until 1974.
4. Impact on Popular Culture
Ruth's influence extended far beyond the baseball field. He became a cultural icon of the 1920s and 1930s, symbolizing the "Roaring Twenties" with his extravagant lifestyle, larger-than-life personality, and incredible athletic achievements. He appeared in films, endorsed numerous products, and was a frequent guest at high-society events.
5. Personal Life and Marriage
In 1914, Ruth married Helen Woodford, and they adopted a daughter, Julia, in 1921. However, their marriage was marked by infidelity and personal struggles. After Helen's death in a fire in 1929, Ruth married Clare Brooks, a widow and a model, in 1929, with whom he remained until his death.
6. Later Life and Legacy
Ruth's career began to decline in the late 1920s and early 1930s, partly due to his age and a bout of illness. He retired in 1935, after a short stint with the Boston Braves. He was one of the first five players to be elected into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1936. Ruth passed away on August 16, 1948, due to complications from nasopharyngeal cancer, but his legacy as one of baseball's greatest heroes has endured.
7. Philanthropy and Charity
Despite his rough exterior, Ruth had a soft spot for children and was involved in various charitable activities throughout his career. He often visited hospitals and orphanages, and his larger-than-life figure made him a beloved guest at these events.
8. Rivalries and Friendships
Ruth's career was marked by notable rivalries, particularly with Lou Gehrig, his teammate on the Yankees. Despite their on-field rivalry, the two were close friends off the field. Ruth also had a well-documented friendship with baseball legend, Lou Costello, with whom he appeared in several films.
9. The Called Shot
One of the most enduring myths surrounding Ruth is the "Called Shot" during Game 3 of the 1932 World Series. The story goes that Ruth pointed to the center field stands before hitting a home run off Charlie Root of the Chicago Cubs. While the details of the event are disputed, it has become an iconic moment in baseball lore.
10. Lasting Impact on Baseball
Babe Ruth's impact on baseball cannot be overstated. He helped popularize the game in the 1920s and 1930s, setting records that stood for decades. His legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements, influencing generations of baseball players and fans. Today, he remains an iconic figure in American sports history, a testament to the power of talent, charisma, and determination.
In conclusion, Babe Ruth's life was a complex tapestry of triumph, tragedy, and enduring legacy. From his humble beginnings to his rise as a baseball icon, Ruth's story is one of inspiration and fascination. As we continue to celebrate his achievements and the impact he had on the game of baseball, we are reminded of the timeless appeal of this American legend.
