Softball is a game that is played in teams of 2 with 9-12players each. It is a modified version of baseball. This game was invented by George Hancock onm Thanksgiving Day in 1887. It was a winter version of Baseball, intended for keeping players in practice during winter.
The origin of the game dates back to when Yale and Harvard alumni gathered at Farragut Boat Club in Chicago to hear the scores of annual football game. When the score was announced, a Yale alum threw a boxing glove at Harvard supporter, whereas the other person grabbed a stick and swung at it. George Hancock called Play ball and the game began. You can know more about the history of this game at this link.