John L. Sullivan and His America

by Michael Isenberg
John L. Sullivan and His America cover
Good Books rating 4.25
History, Identity, Culture, Sociology
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  • ID: 8224
  • Added: 2025-12-21
  • Updated: 2025-12-21
  • ISBN: 9780252064340
  • Publisher: University of Illinois Press
  • Published: 1994-01-15
  • Reviews: 3

John L. Sullivan and His America is a gripping biography that delves into the life of the fabled boxing champion, John L. Sullivan. The book vividly portrays Sullivan's journey from a working-class background in Boston's Irish ghetto to the pinnacle of the prizefighting world. Drawing on a wealth of contemporary sources, including the scandalous National Police Gazette, the author recounts Sullivan's brawls and triumphs, providing a vivid snapshot of the rough-and-tumble times in which he lived. This biography not only chronicles Sullivan's boxing career but also places him squarely within the context of his era. It explores the social and cultural landscape of late 19th-century America, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities that shaped Sullivan's life and legacy. The book is a compelling blend of sports history and social commentary, making it a must-read for fans of boxing and American history alike.

Reviews
BoxRec · 2019-01-10
great 4.00

The book is suitable for boxing fans who are also history buffs. It is described as a scholarly work that provides a deep understanding of Sullivan's impact on American society.

This review emphasizes the book's appeal to both boxing fans and history enthusiasts. The author is praised for their scholarly approach, which provides a nuanced understanding of Sullivan's role in American culture. The reviewer notes that the book is particularly valuable for its historical context, offering insights into how Sullivan's career mirrored the changes in American society. The book is seen as a bridge between sports history and broader social history, making it a unique and valuable read.

Quick quotes

    Suitable for boxing fans who are also history buffs.

    Isenberg's scholarly approach provides a nuanced understanding of Sullivan's role in American culture.

    A bridge between sports history and broader social history.

The 13th Round · 2008-09-01
excellent 4.50

The book is praised for its comprehensive exploration of John L. Sullivan as a social phenomenon. It is described as a superb work that delves into the fighter's impact on American culture.

This review highlights the book's ability to mine a wealth of Sullivan material and craft a narrative that is both engaging and insightful. The author is commended for explaining Sullivan's significance not just as a boxer, but as a cultural icon. The book is seen as a must-read for those interested in the intersection of sports and history. The reviewer appreciates the depth of research and the vivid portrayal of Sullivan's era, making it a compelling read for history buffs and boxing enthusiasts alike.

Quick quotes

    Isenberg mined the mother lode of Sullivan material and crafted a work that's superb in explaining the fighter as a social phenomenon.

    A work that's superb in explaining the fighter as a social phenomenon and ...

    A compelling read for history buffs and boxing enthusiasts alike.

Journal of American History · AS Anderson · 1990-01-01
brilliant 4.25

The book is noted for its extensive research and insightful analysis of Sullivan's life and times. It is praised for uncovering the roots of Sullivan myths that mark the transition from rural to urban America.

In this review, the author AS Anderson highlights the book's thorough research and insightful analysis. The reviewer appreciates how the book uncovers the myths surrounding Sullivan and provides a deeper understanding of his impact on American culture. The book is seen as a significant contribution to the study of American history, particularly in how it explores the social and cultural shifts of the time. The reviewer notes that the book is well-written and engaging, making it accessible to both academic and general readers.

Quick quotes

    This book uncovers the roots of the Sullivan myths that help mark the break between America's isolated rural past and its modern urban culture.

    A significant contribution to the study of American history.

    Well-written and engaging, making it accessible to both academic and general readers.

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