John Thorn Quotes
- Historian
- 1962
John Thorn is an American author, historian, and editor who specializes in the history of baseball. He is the official historian of Major League Baseball and the author of numerous books on the subject, including Total Baseball, The Hidden Game of Baseball, and Baseball in the Garden of Eden. He has…Read More
John Thorn is an American author, historian, and editor who specializes in the history of baseball. He is the official historian of Major League Baseball and the author of numerous books on the subject, including Total Baseball, The Hidden Game of Baseball, and Baseball in the Garden of Eden. He has also written extensively on the history of American sports, including Football in America and A Game of Inches. Thorn is a frequent contributor to ESPN, The New York Times, and other publications.Read Less
John Thorn is an American author, historian, and editor who specializes in the history of baseball. He is the official historian of Major League Baseball and the author of numerous books on the subject, including Total Baseball, The Hidden Game of Baseball, and Baseball in the Garden of Eden. He has also written extensively on the history of American sports, including Football in America and A Game of Inches. Thorn is a frequent contributor to ESPN, The New York Times, and other publications.
John Thorn Career Highlights
- Thorn’s career in sports journalism began in the early 1970s when he worked as a freelance writer for various publications, including The Sporting News and Sports Illustrated.
- In 1979, he became the editor of Total Sports Publishing, where he oversaw the production of numerous sports encyclopedias and reference books.
- In 1984, Thorn was appointed as the senior editor of the prestigious Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in expanding the museum’s collection and developing its educational programs.
- In 1999, Thorn was appointed as the official historian for Major League Baseball, a position he held until 2011. During this time, he worked closely with the league to preserve and promote the history of the sport.
- Thorn has authored or co-authored over a dozen books on the history of baseball, including the critically acclaimed “Total Baseball” encyclopedia and “Baseball in the Garden of Eden: The Secret History of the Early Game.”
- He has also served as a consultant and on-screen commentator for various documentaries and films, including Ken Burns’ “Baseball” series and the movie “Field of Dreams.”
Key Contributions by John Thorn
- Thorn’s most significant contribution to the world of sports is his extensive research and documentation of the early history of baseball. He has uncovered and debunked many myths and misconceptions surrounding the origins of the sport, shedding new light on its evolution.
- He has also played a crucial role in preserving and promoting the history of baseball through his work at the Baseball Hall of Fame and as the official historian for Major League Baseball.
- Thorn’s books and articles have been praised for their thoroughness, accuracy, and engaging writing style, making the history of baseball accessible to a wider audience.
- He has also been a vocal advocate for the inclusion of underrepresented groups in the history of baseball, such as women and players of color.
What Sets John Thorn Apart
- Thorn’s extensive knowledge and expertise in the history of baseball are unparalleled. He has spent decades researching and documenting the sport, making him one of the foremost authorities on the subject.
- His ability to uncover and debunk myths and misconceptions surrounding the origins of baseball sets him apart from other sports historians. He has a keen eye for detail and a dedication to factual accuracy.
- Thorn’s passion for the sport and its history is evident in his work. He has a deep understanding and appreciation for the cultural significance of baseball, making his contributions all the more meaningful.
Takeaways
- John Thorn’s career highlights, key contributions, and unique qualities have solidified his reputation as one of the most influential figures in the world of sports.
- His extensive research and documentation of the early history of baseball have reshaped our understanding of the sport and its evolution.
- Thorn’s dedication to preserving and promoting the history of baseball has made him a valuable asset to the Baseball Hall of Fame and Major League Baseball.
- His passion for the sport and its history serves as an inspiration to future generations of sports historians and enthusiasts.