Federal League
The Federal League of Base Ball Clubs, commonly known as the Federal League, was an American professional baseball league that operated as a major league in competition with the established leagues, the National League and the American League, from 1913 to 1915.
Formation and Operations
The Federal League was founded by John T. Powers in early 1913. Initially, it operated outside the National Agreement, which governed relationships between major and minor leagues. The league's president, James A. Gilmore, declared it a major league, setting the stage for direct competition with the established leagues.
Legal Battle and Demise
The Federal League's existence was marred by interference from the National and American Leagues, leading to its eventual dissolution after the 1915 season. This conflict culminated in a landmark lawsuit, Federal Baseball Club v. National League, decided by the U.S. Supreme Court. The court ruled that the Sherman Antitrust Act did not apply to Major League Baseball, a decision that profoundly affected the sport's legal landscape.
Legacy
Despite its brief existence, the Federal League left a lasting mark on baseball history. One of its most enduring legacies is the ballpark now known as Wrigley Field. Originally built for the Federal League's Chicago Whales, Wrigley Field is now the iconic home of the Chicago Cubs.
Related Topics
This integration of historical context and legal ramifications underscores the significance of the Federal League in the broader narrative of American baseball.