Origins & Early Life

Grover Cleveland Alexander (February 26, 1887 – November 4, 1950), nicknamed "Old Pete" and "Alexander the Great", was an American professional baseball pitcher in Major League Baseball. He played from 1911 through 1930 for the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs, and St. Louis Cardinals. In 1938, Alexander was elected into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Alexander was born in Elba, Nebraska, one of eight children born to William Alexander and Martha "Maggie" Cootey. His father was a Democrat, and Alexander was born during the first term of President Grover Cleveland, a Democrat, so his parents named him for Cleveland. Alexander attended the schools of Elba and St. Paul, and graduated from St. Paul High School in 1909.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

After completing his education, Alexander was employed digging postholes for the Howard County Telephone Company. Alexander played semi-professional baseball in his youth, signing his first professional contract at age 20 in 1907 for $50 per month ($1,728 in current dollar terms). In 1909, he played for the Galesburg Boosters in the Class D Illinois–Missouri League and went 15–8 that year with a 1.36 ERA. His career was almost ended when he was struck by a...

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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• 1887 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1887
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• 1950 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1950
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