In the given statement, John Thorn refers to a series of troubling occurrences that define or characterize the games played during the nineteenth century. The phrase suggests that there was a particular pattern or set of circumstances associated with these games that Thorn found concerning and worth noting.
The deeper meaning behind Thorn's comment points to an era when sports and other competitive activities were marked by significant issues such as corruption, unethical behavior, and lack of regulation. By describing this period as a "game," Thorn implies that the events he is referring to are not just casual incidents but rather systematic problems inherent in the culture and conduct of games during that time. This suggests that the way these games were played had broader implications beyond the immediate context, influencing societal values and ethics at large.
John Thorn is an American author and sports historian renowned for his extensive knowledge on baseball history. He has written numerous books and articles on the subject, contributing significantly to the understanding of how the sport evolved over time in America. His insights often highlight lesser-known aspects or controversies within the world of nineteenth-century sports, making him a respected voice when discussing historical trends and events related to games and competitions during that era.
