Lore Lore 267: Curveball
Nov 18, 2024
Explore the poignant tale of young Robert, a boy whose memory lives on through a beloved snack created by his grandfather. Delve into the quirky superstitions of baseball, from Wade Boggs' rituals to the Cubs' legendary curse. Discover how a unique cult blends belief and performance, reflecting on the powerful influence of shared traditions. The mysterious connection between hypnosis and boxing further captivates, revealing the psychological play that shapes athletic success. Join a journey where folklore meets the unexpected!
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Sailor Jack Became A Memorial
- Frederick Ruckheim put his five-year-old grandson Robert's sailor-suited face on Cracker Jack boxes in 1918.
- The boy died at seven and his image became an enduring memorial on snack packaging.
Superstition Fills Baseball's Uncertainty
- Baseball's high randomness drives players to invent rituals to regain control.
- Those rituals persist because they reduce anxiety and can improve confidence and performance.
Teams Manufactured Luck And Shameful Rituals
- Managers staged lucky events like dropping hairpins or parading white horses to manufacture good luck.
- Some early rituals were racist, such as rubbing a black child's head for luck.