Meaning: The quote "Football is a game designed to keep coal miners off the streets" by Jimmy Breslin, an American journalist and author, is a thought-provoking statement that sheds light on the historical and cultural significance of football in society. While it may seem like a simple and humorous remark at first glance, it carries a deeper meaning that reflects the social and economic conditions of the time when Breslin made this statement.

In the context of the quote, it is important to understand the historical background of coal mining and its impact on the working class in the United States. During the early to mid-20th century, coal mining was a dominant industry in many regions of the country, employing a large number of blue-collar workers. These workers often faced harsh and dangerous working conditions, long hours, and low wages. As a result, the coal mining communities were often plagued by poverty and unemployment, with many workers struggling to make ends meet.

In this context, Breslin's quote suggests that football, as a popular and widely followed sport in the United States, served as a form of entertainment and diversion for the coal miners. It provided them with a means of escape from the hardships of their daily lives and offered a sense of camaraderie and community spirit. By engaging in football, either as spectators or participants, the coal miners were able to find a reprieve from the challenges they faced, thus keeping them off the streets and providing a sense of purpose and belonging.

Furthermore, the quote also speaks to the broader societal role of sports and entertainment in providing a distraction and outlet for individuals facing adversity. Football, as a widely accessible and unifying sport, has the power to bring people together and foster a sense of unity and belonging, regardless of their background or social status. In the case of coal miners, football may have served as a unifying force that brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds, offering them a shared passion and source of joy amidst their struggles.

Moreover, Breslin's quote also touches upon the idea of sports as a form of social and economic relief for marginalized communities. By emphasizing the role of football in keeping coal miners off the streets, Breslin highlights the potential of sports to provide a positive outlet for individuals who may otherwise face limited opportunities for leisure and recreation. In this sense, football can be seen as a means of promoting social cohesion and providing a sense of purpose and pride for those in challenging circumstances.

In conclusion, Jimmy Breslin's quote "Football is a game designed to keep coal miners off the streets" encapsulates the multifaceted role of sports in society, particularly in the context of historical working-class communities. It underscores the significance of football as a source of entertainment, camaraderie, and respite for individuals facing economic hardship and social adversity. Through this quote, Breslin invites us to consider the broader impact of sports on communities and the ways in which they can contribute to the well-being and cohesion of society as a whole.