http://www.breederretriever.com/dog-breed-history/93/american-staffordshire-terrier-(pit-bull).php
Born in the 19th century, The American Staffordshire Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier are the result of crosses between Bulldogs and terriers, though there is some debate as to exactly which terrier that was. Some believe that the White English Terrier or Black and Tan Terrier was used, but most experts say it was the English Smooth Terrier. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was developed in England for the purpose of dog fighting, and was introduced to America during the late 19th century to compete in the same sport. The Americans bred a larger Pit Bull than the English, and the American Staffordshire Terrier quickly took shape as a distinct breed. Though the breed was often employed as an all purpose farm dog during the early 20th century, its legacy has always been that of a gladiator.
See my above post - and, thanks, I have more than half a brain. The fact that they were used in fighting does not negate the history they have had of being left with children and being beloved pets for at least 2 centuries. It would behoove anyone advocating their total annihilation to ask some pertinent questions regarding why the extreme media coverage only in the last 10-20 years given this dog’s long history of living in close proximity with humans. Where was their alleged “viciousness” when Chows, Dobes, Rotties, and yes even the beloved German Shepherd were taking the heat?? Agenda anyone?? Why did all of those breeds suddenly become acceptable and perfectly harmless while the Pit, who was equally beloved for many many decades at the least, was suddenly deemed Satan incarnate??