They were 19th century ideas, and they were easy to make. So, you could just take a few pieces, sew them together, put a little button on top, put a visor in, and it was a very simple hat.
But, the first time it was used, purportedly, was for American baseball. It is very utilitarian, because there is a visor, but it is not a hat that, if you are throwing your arms around or batting or throwing a ball, you’ll get caught on the brim.
It wasn’t until the 1920s that the hats became available to people outside of the sport.
PRI’s Peabody Award-winning "Studio 360 with Kurt Andersen" from WNYC is public radio’s smart and surprising guide to what’s happening in pop culture and the arts. Each week, Kurt Andersen introduces you to the people who are creating and shaping our culture. Life is busy — so let "Studio 360" steer you to the must-see movie this weekend, the next book for your nightstand, or the song that will change your life.
Every day, reporters and producers at The World are hard at work bringing you human-centered news from across the globe. But we can’t do it without you. We need your support to ensure we can continue this work for another year.
Make a gift today, and you’ll help us unlock a matching gift of $67,000!