Why did the AAGPBL begin?

The All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) was established in 1943 to maintain baseball's popularity during World War II when many male players were serving in the military. With a shortage of male athletes, team owners sought to attract fans by creating a women’s league that would preserve the sport and provide entertainment. The league also aimed to showcase women’s athleticism and challenge gender norms of the time, ultimately paving the way for future women's sports.