On August 16, 1948, baseball legend Babe Ruth died in New York City. Ruth had been one of the most dominant and popular players in the sport’s history. His home run records and larger-than-life personality helped transform baseball into a national pastime. By the time of his death, he was already a mythic figure in American sports. The nation mourned his passing with tributes in ballparks and newspapers. His career remains a benchmark in discussions of baseball greatness.
