American radio audiences grew in the 1930s when manufacturers streamlined production and radio prices dropped. Federally-driven rural electrification projects extended the reach of electricity into less populated areas. For the first time, America could share a collective experience -- live, as it happened.

The technology was perfect for sports like horse racing. Descriptive announcers like Clem McCarthy and Joe Hernandez conveyed the rapid action with color and finesse.

Listen to vintage radio recordings of Seabiscuit's most famous races.