CLASSIC: Teddy Roosevelt May Just Have Saved Modern (American) Football

CLASSIC: Teddy Roosevelt May Just Have Saved Modern (American) Football

April 17, 2026 · 25 min

About this episode

The episode discusses how Teddy Roosevelt played a crucial role in saving modern American football amidst rising concerns over player safety in the early 1900s.

In recent years the public has become increasingly aware of the long-term dangers posed by sports injuries -- but at the turn of the 20th century this wasn't the case. Football players didn't wear protective gear, and in 1905 alone more than 15 players died from game-related injuries. Universities were on the verge of banning football entirely. President Roosevelt, himself a life-long fan of the sport, knew something must be done. Listen in to learn how the 26th President of the US may just have saved modern football. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More episodes of Ridiculous History

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Ridiculous History podcast page.