Why Was Chewing Tobacco Turned Into Kids’ Gum?

Overview

Created to mimic the experience of chewing tobacco for kids, Big League Chew became one of the most iconic bubble gums in American history. But why was it invented in the first place? Why did kids want to imitate baseball players chewing tobacco? And what does this strange piece of baseball history have to do with one of the most acclaimed Hollywood directors of the 21st century? In this episode of Weird History Food, we uncover the bizarre true story behind Big League Chew, its connection to baseball and chewing tobacco culture, and the unexpected Hollywood link hiding in its history.