Seabiscuit's swift surge into national recognition served as a form of catharsis, a way to release emotions, amid an era marked by economic challenges, widespread joblessness, and adversity. Hillenbrand observes that "America was desperate to lose itself in anything that offered affirmation." People of that time identified with Seabiscuit, an unlikely hero trapped in circumstances beyond his control. His determined success gave them a collective sense of triumph and a brief respite from their own struggles. This relief was not just psychological; horse racing also provided affordable entertainment and the possibility of quick riches through winning bets.

Seabiscuit epitomized the American dream—the notion that an underdog, whether human or animal, can triumph over adversity and, through determination, intelligence, and effort, achieve success. This dream harks back to the early European settlers who arrived in America in pursuit of religious and political freedom, as well as the prosperity they believed the land offered. This idea became deeply rooted in global consciousness, drawing numerous immigrants to seek their fortunes in the New World. Popularized by Horatio Alger, Jr., the idealization of the American dream has been a longstanding literary theme. Seabiscuit embodied the resilience and bravery often deemed crucial to realizing this dream, becoming a role model. The horse emerged as "a cultural icon that transcended sport."

Apart from Seabiscuit's impact on the American consciousness, Charles Howard also illustrated the potential of the rags-to-riches narrative. Howard transformed twenty-one cents into millions through astute investments, self-marketing, and entrepreneurial vision. Although frequently overshadowed by his renowned horse, Howard also symbolized the American dream.

Although the study of popular culture is relatively modern, it originated with the advent of radio. Unlike print media, radio provided immediate access to news, allowing for real-time broadcasts. In those early days of mass media, families would gather around their radios to listen to updates on global events, serialized fictional shows, and live sports coverage. For the first time, people could track sporting events live without being present. Hillenbrand notes that in 1938, "no individual had achieved fame and popularity as intense and widespread" as Seabiscuit. To emphasize the horse's impact on popular culture, the author mentions that by the end of 1938, Seabiscuit "had garnered more newspaper coverage … than Roosevelt … Hitler … Mussolini … or any other newsmaker."

In addition to radio's influence, the decade witnessed the rise of trends such as merchandising, marketing, and celebrity endorsements. Seabiscuit's image appeared on a wide range of products, including ashtrays, board games, playing cards, hats, and wallets, and even decorated the nose of a military bomber. Special trains, known as Seabiscuit Limited, were arranged to transport fans to the racetrack. At the peak of the merchandising craze, there was a suggestion to feature the horse as an exhibit at the San Francisco World's Fair, and massive billboards showcasing the racer's image were hung over Manhattan skyscrapers.

For countless Americans, sports have been a deep-rooted passion, as demonstrated by the extensive collection of works published on various athletic events. In a narrative focused on horseracing, the sporting life naturally emerges as a central theme. Hillenbrand provides a detailed and vivid depiction of the "sport of kings," highlighting the opulent lifestyle of those who could afford to own competitive thoroughbreds, the modest living conditions of stable boys, and the intense challenges faced by novice jockeys. The book captures the realities of a jockey's life in depth, along with the adrenaline-fueled excitement of the races.

Seabiscuit emphasizes the sacrifices athletes are willing to make for their passion for the sport. Hillenbrand states, "A jockey's life was nothing short of appalling." The scale played a crucial role in...