Athletics can trace its ancestry back to antiquity. In the early stages of sports development, physical activity had a strong connection to ritual, war, and entertainment.

Studying the history of sports can shed light on social shifts and the nature of the sport itself, which appears to be integral to the growth of human abilities. But, unfortunately, it becomes increasingly challenging to support theories about the origins and purposes of sport as one goes back in time.

Sport has always been connected to military training, dating back to the sport’s earliest days. For example, individuals were judged on their suitability for service based on competition. In addition, military personnel trained and competed in team sports to demonstrate their fighting skills and ability to work together (military unit).

As we know them today, some historians believe that team sports are a Western invention. However, traditional team sports are thought to have originated in Great Britain and spread throughout the British Empire. Cricket (unrelated to baseball) was popularized by Europeans, as was football of various varieties, bowling in multiple guises, cue sports, hockey, tennis, equestrian, and a slew of winter games.

Industrialization and mass production led to more time to play or watch (and gamble on) sports, as well as a decrease in the elitism and greater accessibility of a wide range of sports, regardless of their origins. In addition, professionalism in sports grew in importance because of mass media and global communication.

The desire to cheat grew because of the increased value placed on those who were successful in sports. The use of steroids is one of the most common cheating methods today. While professional athletes’ use of performance-enhancing drugs has long been frowned upon, agencies have been established to keep tabs on their activities and ensure that the game is played moderately.

Unlike American football, which gained popularity in the south after the American Civil War, baseball was born in the northeastern United States. It was closely related to English rounders and French la Soule but not as clearly linked to cricket as is the case with American football. However, baseball has been documented in England as well.