a. Before they moved to Oakland, the baseball Athletics were located in which two cities? b. Before they moved to Atlanta, the baseball Braves were located in which two cities?

Before settling in Oakland, California, the baseball Athletics franchise called two other cities home. The team originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where they were known as the Philadelphia Athletics from 1901 to 1954. Under the legendary manager Connie Mack, the Philadelphia A's were a powerhouse in the early 20th century, winning five World Series championships. However, declining performance and financial struggles led to their relocation.

In 1955, the franchise moved westward to become the Kansas City Athletics. Their thirteen seasons in Kansas City, from 1955 to 1967, were largely marked by losing records and frequent changes in ownership and management. Despite a devoted fan base in their inaugural Kansas City season, the team struggled both on the field and at the box office, ultimately paving the way for another move to Oakland in 1968.

Similarly, the baseball Braves franchise had two previous homes before establishing itself in Atlanta, Georgia. The team began its storied history in Boston, Massachusetts, as early as 1871, playing under various names before becoming known as the Boston Braves. They spent over 80 years in Boston, achieving a World Series title in 1914 and several National League pennants.

Facing dwindling fan support in Boston, the Braves made a groundbreaking move to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1953, becoming the first major league team to relocate in half a century. The Milwaukee Braves were an instant sensation, drawing record crowds and enjoying significant on-field success, including winning the 1957 World Series. Despite never having a losing season in Milwaukee, ownership sought a larger television market, leading to the team's controversial relocation to Atlanta in 1966.