The Evolution of Modern Soccer: How the British Set the Stage
The British have played a pivotal role in shaping modern soccer, a game that started thousands of years ago, transcending cultures, continents, and civilizations. The evolution of this beloved sport is largely due to the British determination to structure this wonderful game.
By the mid-19th century, various forms of football were being played across Britain. These games were quite different from the soccer we know today, with no standardized rules and often involving hundreds of players, in violent and chaotic matches that frequently resulted in injuries. They were closer to mob riots than to sports events. Just as football had different forms across Britain, it was played differently in each school, making inter-school competitions impossible.
In an attempt to standardize the rules, a significant change occurred in 1863 when the Football Association (FA) was formed in England. This was the first governing body of soccer and they set out to develop a universal set of rules to govern the sport. These rules, better known as 'the laws of the game,' formed the foundation of modern soccer. For instance, rules regarding the number of players, the size of the field, and straightforward offside rules were laid out. Such regulation was a significant milestone in the evolution of soccer.
Following the establishment of the FA and the standardization of rules came the development of competitions. In 1871, one year after this pivotal development, the Football Association Challenge Cup, more commonly known as the FA Cup, was established. This was the first widely recognized football tournament, setting the stage for organized competitive football.
In addition to structuring the game and organizing competitions, the British also played an essential role in spreading the game globally. It would not be an exaggeration to say that wherever the British Empire set foot, they took the game of soccer with them. From nations as far southeast as Australia to as far west as Argentina, the British were instrumental in introducing soccer. In fact, the first international football match was organized between Scotland and England in 1872.
The professionalization of soccer is another field where the British made a significant contribution. In the late 19th century, there was a growing push for players to be paid, which wasn't a universally popular notion at the time. However, after much debate, in 1885 the FA acknowledged the legality of professional soccer players. Subsequently, the English League was established in 1888, paving the way for the commercialization of the sport.
Tracing Back the Roots: Ancient Civilizations and Their Role in Soccer's Genesis
The earliest origins of soccer, as we know it today, can be traced back to diverse corners of the ancient world, highlighting the universal appeal of the game. From the bustling cities of Asia to the lush landscapes of South and Central America, the echoes of soccer's genesis resonate through the centuries. Here we'll examine the varying roles these ancient civilizations played in framing the foundation of today's most popular sport.
Firstly, we turn our gaze towards the East, specifically to China during the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD). The game of Cuju, which translates to "kick the ball with foot," was a popular activity both among the Chinese imperial court and the common people. The game involved two teams trying to score points by kicking a leather ball stuffed with feathers into a net. The opposing team was allowed to use any body part except for their hands to keep the ball out of their area, mirroring the basic principles of modern soccer.
Next, we travel to the Japanese archipelago where the sport of Kemari was played as early as 600 AD. Unlike Cuju, Kemari was not competitive; it emphasized cooperation and precision. The game ensued with participants standing in a circle, attempting to keep a ball made of deerskin aloft without it touching the ground. Even though it differed from the competitive structure of today's soccer, it familiarized the concept of teamwork and control, which are integral elements in the modern match.
Ancient Greece also boasted a variation of soccer through a game known as Episkyros. While it involved more physical contact than typical soccer matches today, it was nevertheless a game where players used their feet to kick a small ball. The Romans later adopted this game and called it Harpastum, which was noted in the writings of a Greek scholar in the 2nd century AD. This game displayed tactics, strategy, and endurance, subtly hinting at the tactical manoeuvres witnessed in soccer today.
In the Americas, the Mayans around the 1600 BC played a game called Pitz, often linked to soccer. This complex game involved maneuvering a rubber ball through stone hoops affixed high on the court walls using only the hips, shoulders, and head. Pitz demonstrated yet another evolution of the soccer-like game concept, emphasizing a unique ball control aspect seen in professional soccer today.
On the African continent, there are numerous historical references to traditional ball games.
