Posted By:
Brad L.Alright, I'll be the one to say it. Unfortunately, being the era that all of the mentioned ball players played in, I'm sure race played a factor in the fans perception of Mantle/Williams vs. Mays/Aaron. I am in no way a racist person in my personal/professional life, or in my life as a sports fan (or in any aspect of my life for that matter). But the 50's and 60's certainly had their share of problems in the area of race relations, and I suspect that young white boys (and white adults) would flock to an "All-American" looking white player, more than an African-American player during those times. I'm not saying all would, but that would be a factor much more than it would today. I'm also not taking away any of the talent of any of those players. I think they were all extremely talented athletes and all deserve the praise and admiration that they've received (and continue to receive).
Peace.
*edited for grammar