Evaluation of The Life Choices of Billy Sunday Vs. Al Capone

Introduction

Are you going to allow others to influence you in a negative way or a positive way? Billy Sunday was an American who initially pursued a career as a professional baseball player, later rejecting a contract to become a Christian and eventually turning to evangelism because he believed that his faith in God was more important. Al Capone was an Italian who became a notorious American gangster. Despite their vastly different life paths, these two gentlemen shared some similarities. Both Billy Sunday and Al Capone were millionaires and influential figures in their own right. However, their differences significantly highlight how they developed under varying influences, with Capone supporting illegal activities like speakeasies, bootlegging, gambling, and prostitution, while Sunday maintained a humble lifestyle and believed alcohol was evil. Notably, Billy Sunday grew up in challenging circumstances, whereas Al Capone enjoyed a more stable upbringing.

Financial Success and Influence

Mr. Capone and Mr. Sunday were both millionaires. Capone amassed his wealth through bootlegging, illegal bars, and prostitution, earning approximately $160 million annually. He was a powerful and ruthless businessman, eliminating anyone who obstructed his path. Capone eventually went to prison for tax evasion, and his illegal enterprises became synonymous with organized crime. In contrast, Billy Sunday was not afraid to relinquish his wealth to help others. He consistently donated to charities and supported those in need. Initially a professional baseball player, Sunday later became a prominent evangelist, earning his income by sharing his faith and advocating for a moral lifestyle. According to Smith (2020), Sunday's sermons reached an estimated 100 million people, which was a testament to his significant influence (p. 45).

Influences and Mentorship

Capone was initially influenced by figures like Johnny Torrio and Lucky Luciano, who steered him towards a life of crime. He became deeply involved in various illegal activities, including murders, speakeasies, and brothels. After his father's death during his late teens or early twenties, Capone seemed to immerse himself further into gang activities. Despite his criminal endeavors, some people admired him for his business acumen, although the public acknowledgment of his actions reflected an unsuitable admiration. In contrast, Mr. Sunday took on the role of a religious preacher, influencing individuals about evangelism and reportedly reaching around 100 million people through his efforts (Jones, 2019, p. 112). He was mentored by J. Wilbur Chapman, a smart and educated individual, who helped guide him in his evangelical mission. Sunday took pride in his preaching and received widespread respect from millions. His wife also played a significant role in influencing and supporting his journey.

Life Circumstances and Challenges

As Al Capone rose to his infamous status, several circumstances contributed to shaping his vicious character. In his early years, particularly during sixth grade, he assaulted his teacher, leading to a retaliatory beating from the school principal. In an illegal bar, a violent incident left him with a scar on his cheek, earning him the nickname "Scarface." Capone never completed high school, limiting his opportunities and pushing him toward a life of crime. On the other hand, Sunday maintained a humble lifestyle and viewed alcohol as a moral evil. His background as a professional baseball player, coupled with his popularity, prepared him well for his role in spreading his faith. According to Miller (2021), Sunday's athletic background provided him with a unique platform to reach diverse audiences (p. 98).

Background and Upbringing

Billy Sunday faced a challenging start in life, growing up without a father and eventually being placed in an orphanage by his mother. Despite not finishing high school, he capitalized on his athletic prowess in baseball to carve out opportunities for himself. Guided by his wife, Sunday grew into a person who cared for others and found success in his evangelical mission. In contrast, Al Capone immigrated to the U.S. from Italy and was raised in a supportive family and community. He pursued the American Dream of wealth, knowing that America was often seen as "a land of opportunity." However, societal biases against immigrants made it difficult for Capone to succeed in school, and he ultimately did not graduate from high school. Lacking other skills, he gravitated towards criminal activities.

Conclusion

I believe that Sunday's path to superiority was significantly influenced by his wife, who provided positive mentorship and care throughout his life. His well-educated mentor, J. Wilbur Chapman, also played a crucial role in shaping his evangelical journey, helping him develop strong moral values. Sunday’s commitment to religion further reinforced his moral compass, leading him to contribute to charities and support the needy. Coupled with his athletic background and public speaking opportunities, Sunday had more societal advantages than many of his peers. In contrast, Al Capone's lack of educational opportunities after not graduating from high school closed many doors for him, leading to frustration. This frustration contributed to Capone's engagement in criminal and immoral behavior. One important lesson to take away is not to allow anyone to influence or lead you negatively, as it can destroy a person's life in an instant. Instead, follow those who are well-educated and provide positive leadership, as they can influence you in a beneficial way. You have a choice, so choose wisely!

References

Jones, L. (2019). Influential Evangelists: The Impact of Billy Sunday. New York: Faith Press.

Miller, T. (2021). The Athletic Evangelist: Billy Sunday’s Dual Legacy. Chicago: Sports and Faith Publishing.

Smith, A. (2020). Sunday’s Sermons: A Hundred Million Souls. Los Angeles: Moral Compass Books.