Baseball, in its original form (circa 1860s and 70s) was played with a softer makeshift ball and a modified axe handle and no gloves. It was an activity a small town could play together as well as a community event where two nearby communities would come together to play. I believe the American Civil War played a part in spreading it thoughout the country in a time where news didn&#x27;t travel as fast. Basketball also came after baseball and not sure if it was quite as casual in its early form.<p>My brothers play for a historic reenactment team of that era and the game resembles present day softball than baseball with its casual play. There&#x27;s players on their team age 18 to 70 and most of the teams they play are composed of people in smaller towns doing what they did 140 years ago, today. One of the more interesting games they hold every year is played on the statehouse lawn against our state representatives after work.