Sports are a wonderful way to learn about fair play, leadership, and perseverance. In fact, sports have been known to help kids develop these traits, as well as teach them how to overcome setbacks. They can also learn to embrace defeat as a learning opportunity, and that failure is not an insurmountable barrier to success.
Throughout history, humans have practiced and admired different types of sports, including hunting and archery. In medieval times, archery matches were staged with much fanfare, and archery companies marched behind patron saints. Competitions and contests between upper-class and lower-class groups took place during matches, and grand feasts were common. As part of the spectacle, drunkenness was common. There were often Pritschenkoenigs, or “patron saints,” who served as the organizers and kept the crowd entertained with witty verses.
Historically, sports have been dominated by white men, although women and other ethnic groups have played important roles in some sports. In the 20th century, however, sports began to become popular and were adopted by many people around the world. These sports are no longer merely sources of pleasure, but also a mark of status and national identity.
Historically, sports have also influenced politics and social relations. A popular game like soccer or hockey can cause a passionate identification with one team and hatred for the other. If a favorite player or team is injured, the fans can experience despair. On the other hand, they can experience elation if a last-minute goal turns a loss into victory.
