An introduction to key facets of American culture through the lens of religion and sport

This book shows how both sports and religions reflect realities far beyond the boundaries of stadiums and churches. Chapters explore how sports and religions are intertwined with American cultural elements including capitalism, race relations, gender norms, and ­­­­­nationalism. These explorations encourage readers to apply critical inquiry to deeply embedded facets of American culture.

Each chapter contains:

- A summary of existing scholarship
- Case studies and examples
- A brief excerpt from a primary source
- Guided analysis of the excerpt
- Discussion questions
- Suggested further resources

Drawing out the historical context, social and cultural implications of sports and religion, and the inter-relatedness of sports, religions, economy and politics, this book is an innovative introduction to American culture and society.

"Blazer eloquently demonstrates the value of utilizing sport and religion to understand the complexities of United States’ culture, history, and social realities. The expansive case studies, historical accounts, and included follow up materials will wonderfully engage readers and provoke student conversations in classrooms." - Terry Shoemaker, Arizona State, USA

"Annie Blazer is one of the leading scholars working at the intersection of sports and religion today. In American Culture through Religion and Sport, she shows that she is a masterful teacher, too. Covering a wide range of religious communities and social issues from both the past and present, Blazer has a gift for sparking curiosity and exploring intriguing questions. With primary sources and suggested resources to go along with Blazer's insight and analysis, this book provides a new standard for courses blending religious studies, sports, and American culture—and an essential read for anyone interested in exploring those intersections more deeply." - Paul Emory Putz, Baylor University, USA

"With essays that put sport squarely into religious contexts and religion into the sporting arena, Annie Blazer boldly and creatively opens new avenues for religion scholarship and understanding. With novel and needed forays into thorny, often neglected societal quarters, American Culture through Religion and Sport is as didactic for the reader as it is instrumental for teachers in the classroom" - Jeffrey Scholes, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, USA

"This book is a must read that brings the study of religion and sport to new heights. If you’re teaching about religion and sports this is the book you will want to use. But more than that, Blazer’s nuanced approach brings new insights to the intersection of sports, religion, race, gender, and history. Her artful prose makes reading a pleasure for anyone interested in this topic." - Rebecca T. Alpert, Temple University, USA