Background Information. Background information is information provided in a literary work, often at the beginning, to explain the situation to the reader. A writer may include background information to explain the central conflict, the relationships between the characters, the setting, or any other part of the work. Bill Littlefield, the author of “Satchel Paige,” provides background information to help the reader understand why Satchel Paige did not get a chance at major league baseball until he was past his prime. What else does the background information tell the reader about Paige?
Chronological Order. Events arranged in order of the time when they happened are said to be in chronological order. This method of organization is often used in biographical pieces like “Satchel Paige.” In this biography, the background information is provided as an introduction before the chronological organization begins.
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• History Connection. With one exception—“Fleet” Walker in 1884—African-American baseball players were banned from competing in the major leagues until 1947. Black players formed teams made up of entirely African-American players. These teams made up the Negro National League and the Negro American League. The Negro Leagues held an annual World Series until 1950.
• Jackie Robinson became the first African-American player in the major leagues, when he joined the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947. His success opened the door for others. In 1948, at over 40 years of age, Satchel Paige finally got to play in the major leagues.
As you read, make a time line of events in the life of Satchel Paige. Even if you do not know the specific date for something, put the major events down in chronological order.
Write about a person whose skills you admire.
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