Lou Gehrig Farewell To Baseball Address Speech
On July 4, 1939, at Yankee Stadium, one of the most heartbreaking speeches in sports history was given by Lou Gehrig, the legendary baseball player. Gehrig had been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a disease that would later be named after him as "Lou Gehrig's Disease." This disease would ultimately lead to his death in 1941. The speech is known as the "Lou Gehrig Farewell To Baseball Address Speech" and it has become one of the most famous speeches in American history.
The Speech Itself
The speech was delivered in front of a sell-out crowd at Yankee Stadium, as well as a national radio audience. Gehrig, standing at the center of the field, began his speech with gratitude towards his teammates, coaches, and fans. He then went on to describe how lucky he was to have been able to play the game he loved for so long. Gehrig was known for his relentless work ethic, and he mentioned how playing baseball had become a part of his daily routine.
Despite his success on the field, Gehrig's speech was not one of boasting or self-promotion. Rather, it was a humble and emotional tribute to the sport of baseball, and to the people who had supported him throughout his career. Gehrig's words were heartfelt and sincere, expressing his love for the game and his appreciation for the people who had made his success possible. He ended his speech by saying:
"So I close in saying that I might have been given a bad break, but I've got an awful lot to live for. Thank you."
The Impact of the Speech
Gehrig's speech has continued to resonate with people for over 80 years. It has been studied by scholars and celebrated by baseball fans. It is a testament to Gehrig's character and his impact on the sport of baseball, as well as the broader American culture.
One of the reasons why Gehrig's speech has had such a profound impact is that it came at a time when America was facing significant challenges. The country was still recovering from the Great Depression, and World War II was just around the corner. Gehrig's words of gratitude and hope struck a chord with people who were looking for something to hold onto in difficult times.
The Legacy of Lou Gehrig
Gehrig's impact on baseball and American culture cannot be overstated. He was one of the greatest players in the history of the game, with a career batting average of .340 and 493 home runs. He was also known for his quiet humility and his dedication to his team and his fans. Gehrig's diagnosis with ALS was a shock to everyone who knew him, and his speech at Yankee Stadium was a powerful testament to his character and his love for the game of baseball.
The legacy of Lou Gehrig lives on today, not just in the speech he gave on July 4, 1939, but in the millions of people who have been touched by his story. His courage and determination in the face of adversity continue to inspire people around the world, and his name is synonymous with strength and resilience.
Conclusion
The "Lou Gehrig Farewell To Baseball Address Speech" is a powerful reminder of the impact that one person can have on the world. Lou Gehrig's words continue to resonate with people today, inspiring us to be grateful for what we have and to never give up in the face of adversity. His legacy will live on for generations to come, as a testament to the power of sports and the human spirit.