Prizefighting drew support from both upper- and working-class men, even as it was sharply condemned by middle-class Victorians. How do these divisions contribute to an understanding of the competing visions of manhood that characterized the 19th century US?
Historian Elliot Gorn distinguishes between "workplace democracy", which most 19thcentury American workers failed to achieve, and a "democracy of pleasure" that proved easier to access. What does this distinction say about American democracy in general in the 19thcentury?
Do any present-day sporting events resemble early 19th century prizefights? If so, what appeal does this kind of event hold today? If not, why might this interest have faded?