Sports · 1932
Triumph Amid the Great Depression's Darkest Shadow
Despite the crushing weight of global economic hardship, 1932 delivered an unforgettable year of sporting brilliance. From the sun-drenched Los Angeles Coliseum to the frozen tracks of Lake Placid, athletes provided dramatic escapism and groundbreaking records.
- October 1, 1932 | Baseball | Chicago
Babe Ruth's Legendary 'Called Shot'
During Game 3 of the World Series, Babe Ruth famously gestured toward the center-field bleachers before hitting a monumental home run for the New York Yankees.
- July 30 – August 14, 1932 | USA
The 1932 Los Angeles Summer Olympics
Los Angeles hosted the X Olympiad, introducing the first official Olympic Village and victory podiums during a remarkably well-run Games.
- August 1932 | Athletics | Los Angeles
Babe Didrikson Dominates Olympic Track
Multi-sport prodigy Babe Didrikson captured gold medals in the javelin and 80-meter hurdles, setting world records in both events.
- June 1932 | Golf | USA & UK
Gene Sarazen Sweeps Golf's Major Double
Armed with his newly invented sand wedge, Gene Sarazen won both the British Open and the U.S. Open in a single dominant summer.
- December 1932 | Cricket | Australia
England Unleashes the 'Bodyline' Tactics
England captain Douglas Jardine deployed fast, intimidating bowling directly at Australian batters' bodies to restrict superstar Don Bradman in the Ashes.
- December 18, 1932 | Football | Chicago
The First Indoor NFL Playoff Game
Severe blizzards forced the Chicago Bears and Portsmouth Spartans indoors to Chicago Stadium, where the Bears won 9-0 on a dirt-covered field.
- February 4–13, 1932 | Lake Placid
Lake Placid Hosts Winter Olympics
American speed skater Jack Shea won two gold medals as Lake Placid successfully staged the first Winter Olympic Games held in North America.
- August 14, 1932 | Equestrian | LA
Baron Nishi Rides to Equestrian Gold
Japanese officer Takeichi Nishi and his horse Uranus won the individual show jumping gold medal, becoming fan favorites in Los Angeles.
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