How exactly did the "color ban" work in reality? There was never any actual documented rule banning black players. And Commisioner Landis made several statements to the effect that there was no such agreement among owners. Was it something that was never talked about and just assumed? Whenever a new owner entered major league baseball, did someone pull him aside and say, "Remember, blacks are not allowed in the majors." Were the owners really afraid that white fans would stop showing up if black players were allowed? I find it odd that to most people it never crossed their minds that black players were not allowed into the major leaguers. And how was Branch Rickey able to sign Jackie Robinson in effect telling the other owners to screw themselves? Did Happy Chandler drop the hammer on those who might object to Rickey's signing of Robinson? Was WW II a major influence, with many black americans serving in the armed forces with distinction?
I have lots of questions.
I have lots of questions.

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