Sports in Early America

Welcome back to Athletic Anthropology! In todays segment, I would like to discuss sporting culture and development in early American society. In a country that had just gained independence and was establishing itself as a growing power, sports were also blossoming as a social institution. So, let's dive in !

Sports grew in popularity throughout the 19th and 20th centuries due to their ability to reflect American culture and society. Sports were initially used as a vehicle to spread morals and values. These precepts were essential to the country’s evolving identity as the new nation moved away from British imperial rule into independence. Feeling that they were being oppressed by the British, the sports of early America reflect the ideals detailed in the declaration of independence and the constitution. Teamwork, cooperation, justice, and equality on the sporting field helped make sports popular in the 19th and 20th centuries because they empowered people who were living into their new American identity. Sports helped to carry these identities across the country as settlers expanded westward and southward. They maintained their American spirits by practicing sports as a way to hold onto their culture in a foreign environment. For these reasons, the founding fathers of the country promoted sport. Benjamin Franklin and President Thomas Jefferson promoted athletic participation because they focused on physical fitness and social function. Sports allowed for the bonding of groups unfamiliar with each other and created unity. The social aspect of the sport was crucial during fights for independence. 

I hope you have enjoyed our conversation today, feel free to leave a question or comment below. Thank you and enjoy your day!