The American Negro League was a professional baseball league that operated from the 1920s to the 1960s, providing opportunities for African American players who were excluded from Major League Baseball due to racial segregation. The league featured several teams and showcased talented players, helping to elevate the status of black athletes in the sport. The league played a crucial role in the history of baseball, as it not only entertained fans but also served as a platform for civil rights and social change. Notable players, such as Jackie Robinson and Satchel Paige, emerged from the league, eventually breaking barriers and paving the way for integration in professional sports.