How the Chicago Cubs endured a century-long championship drought before their historic 2016 victory

Countries & Cities · Published 29 September 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Founded in 1870, the Chicago Cubs are a cornerstone of American baseball. Despite early dominance, the franchise became synonymous with heartbreak, enduring a record-breaking 108-year World Series championship drought. Their eventual 2016 triumph sparked one of the largest public gatherings in United States history, marking a monumental shift for the North Siders.

The Chicago Cubs, originally known as the White Stockings, were a charter member of the National League in 1876. Under early leadership, including owner William Hulbert and star player-manager Cap Anson, the team established itself as a powerhouse, winning six pennants between 1876 and 1886. By 1903, the franchise had adopted its current name. The early 20th century saw the Cubs achieve unprecedented success, winning back-to-back World Series titles in 1907 and 1908. However, this period of glory preceded a staggering 108-year championship drought that lasted until 2016.

The franchise's history is marked by both legendary players and infamous collapses. In 1930, Hack Wilson set the current runs-batted-in record of 191, while the 1906 team recorded a modern-era record winning percentage of .763. Conversely, the team suffered through decades of mediocrity and recurring late-season failures, often dubbed the 'June Swoon.' The 1969 season remains particularly painful for fans, as the team surrendered a massive division lead to the New York Mets in the final quarter of the season, a collapse that remains a defining moment in the club's lore.

The 1984 season, under GM Dallas Green, revitalized the franchise, led by MVP Ryne Sandberg and Cy Young winner Rick Sutcliffe. Despite winning the NL East, the team fell to the San Diego Padres in the NLCS. It was not until 2016 that the Cubs finally broke their 108-year World Series drought, a feat that resonated globally. Today, the Cubs are valued at an estimated $5 billion and remain a fixture of Chicago's North Side, playing at the historic Wrigley Field, which has served as their home since 1916.

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