History of football, the beautiful game: When, where and how

Although football has evolved, the passion remains unchanged.

History of football, the beautiful game: When, where and how

History of football. (Image via Magzter)

Football is the most popular sport globally, with over 3.5 billion fans. Also known as soccer, it has a long history, and its exact origins are unclear. The game’s simplicity, requiring a ball, boundaries, two teams, and the goal concept, makes it easy to play anywhere.

The history of football is uncertain, with different sources suggesting various origins. The earliest form known is ‘cuju’ from China, similar to football, where players couldn’t use their hands, aiming to kick the ball into a net. Another comparable sport, ‘episkyros’ from Greece, had similar rules and restrictions.

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While football has a long history, the modern version we know began with the creation of the Football Association. Before that, football was played in English public schools, each with its own rules, confusing which rules to follow.

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History of football: What changed, and who changed it?

Ebenezer Morley, often called the father of football, brought clarity to the confusion around football rules. As the founder of Barnes Football Club and its captain until 1867, Morley experienced a close call during a match with Blackheath FC, prompting him to advocate for standardized rules and a governing body.

18th Century Soccer art
18th Century Soccer art. (Image via History UK)

In a letter to a newspaper, Morley set the wheels in motion, leading to the establishment of the Football Association on October 26, 1863. Serving as the association’s secretary until 1866, Morley played a pivotal role in early decisions that shaped the game. One significant choice involved a vote on whether to allow “hacking” and ball-carrying, with the opposing view advocating against such practices. Additionally, there was an unsuccessful attempt to eliminate the offside law.

In its early years, the association faced many challenges as membership had fallen as low as just ten Football clubs by 1867. But, as more and more clubs began to form and with the inception of the FA Cup, which went a long way in serving as a popularity boost, the Football Association continued to live on.

Football in today’s world

FIFA, formed in 1904, oversees global soccer. Its authority is decentralized across continental (UEFA, CONMEBOL, CONCACAF) and national levels (e.g., the Football Association in England, the Royal Spanish Football Federation). This decentralized structure shaped the sport into what it is today.

FC Barcelona Camp Nou
FC Barcelona’s home stadium Camp Nou. (Image via GOAL)

While there are “what could’ve been” moments, the decisions made then are akin to today’s VAR or offside rule debates. Future generations will study these pivotal moments, just as we reflect on the formation of soccer organizations and the sport itself.

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