Beyond Glory

The intense rivalry between Joe Louis and Max Schmeling during the heavyweight fights of 1936 and 1938 serves as a powerful reflection of the socio-political tensions of the era. Acclaimed journalist David Margolick delves into the lives and careers of these two iconic figures, highlighting their contrasting backgrounds—Louis as a black American and Schmeling as a Nazi German hero. The narrative captures the fervent emotions surrounding their legendary rematch, revealing how their bouts transcended sports to embody the broader cultural and social divisions of a world on the brink of war.