History of Sport
History of Sport
History of Sport
NIM : 6173111052
The history of sport is a captivating journey through time, revealing the dynamic interplay between
human culture, society, and physical activity. In tracing the evolution of sports, we uncover not
only tales of athletic prowess but also narratives of societal change, political influence, and cultural
exchange.
From ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece to the modern global arena, sport
has served as a mirror reflecting the values, aspirations, and challenges of each era. It has been a
catalyst for unity, a platform for competition, and a vehicle for personal and societal
transformation.
In this exploration of the history of sport, we embark on a quest to understand how various forms
of physical activity have shaped human civilization. We delve into the rituals of prehistoric tribes,
the athletic contests of ancient empires, and the emergence of organized sports in the modern era.
Through the lens of history, we gain insight into the origins of iconic games like soccer, basketball,
and cricket, as well as traditional pastimes such as archery, wrestling, and martial arts. We witness
the birth of international sporting events like the Olympics, which transcend borders and bring
nations together in friendly rivalry.
More over, we recognize the enduring impact of sport beyond the field of play. It has inspired
artistic expression, influenced political discourse, and fostered social cohesion. Whether in times
of peace or conflict, sport has remained a powerful force for dialogue, understanding, and
solidarity.
As we navigate the rich tapestry of the history of sport, let us celebrate the resilience of the human
spirit and the boundless potential of athletic endeavor to shape our world for the better.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
FOREWORD ............................................................................................................................... ii
CHAPTER II DISCUSSION....................................................................................................... 3
REFERENCES ............................................................................................................................ 15
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CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
History can teach everyone to understand the past and connect it with the present and the
future. Through an understanding of the past, one can comprehend the contemporary context that
predicts events that may occur in the future. A person's life will be more prepared and perfect if
they understand past events because from those events, one can learn many things that will shape
their life in the present and the future. In other words, history plays an important role in helping to
solve urgent problems that are being and will be faced. Similarly, understanding the history of
sports in relation to sports as a global phenomenon connected to all aspects of life such as politics,
economics, religion, social, education, and culture plays a significant role in solving life and living
problems.
Sports have been an integral part of human civilization since ancient times, spanning across
cultures, geographies, and centuries. The origins of sports can be traced back to the earliest
civilizations, where physical contests and athletic prowess were celebrated as essential
components of society. From the Olympic Games of ancient Greece to the gladiatorial combats of
the Roman Empire, sports have served various purposes throughout history, including
entertainment, religious ceremonies, military training, and social cohesion.
Throughout the ages, sports have evolved alongside human civilization, adapting to
changing societal norms, technological advancements, and geopolitical landscapes. The
Renaissance era witnessed a resurgence of interest in sports, with a renewed emphasis on physical
fitness and recreational activities. The Industrial Revolution paved the way for organized sports
leagues and the professionalization of athletic competition, transforming sports into a global
phenomenon.
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In the modern era, sports have transcended geographical boundaries and cultural barriers,
becoming a universal language that unites people from diverse backgrounds. From football to
cricket, basketball to baseball, sports have captured the hearts and minds of billions of people
worldwide, inspiring passion, camaraderie, and excellence.
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CHAPTER II
DISCUSSION
In the history and development of sports in Indonesia, we can draw a line that is increasingly
ascending.
Dynamic Indonesian society will acknowledge that the union of life is living and not only
experiencing the influence of individual human minds and abilities but also experiencing the
influence of time in the development of modern knowledge as it is today.
Sports provide an excellent opportunity to channel energy in a positive way within a community
of brotherhood and friendship for healthy unity and a friendly and joyful atmosphere.
But now we face strong camps, both of which are natural, attitudes towards life, traditions, and
customs, all of which are legacies of colonization plus feudalism for the past 350 years. And
sometimes these camps cannot be seen but can be felt because they are hidden within humans.
Therefore, we must delve into a person's mindset, views, and attitudes to be able to help them
discard the remnants of colonization that still linger within them to consciously assist the sports
movement.
In this case, achievement plays a role and is an inseparable factor from human life. The
achievements we have, besides elevating the name and dignifying the dignity of the Indonesian
nation in the world, a high achievement by an Indonesian athlete can awaken within citizens a
sense of national pride, a blazing spirit of nationalism, and a unity of spirit so powerful that it
awakens new strengths within them and creates a genuine desire to participate in the sports
movement.
Sport comes from the Latin word "disportare" or "deportare" in Italian "deporte" which
means entertainment, maintenance, or entertainment for joy. It can be said that sport is human
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activity to amuse oneself while maintaining physical fitness. Meanwhile, there is a close
relationship between sport and play and has a structural relationship, that sport is a more perfect
form of play. But not all forms of play are considered sports. Sport is something that develops
from play, is the result of a combination of:
Athletics, sports are a combination of all physical exercises carried out by people voluntarily to
strengthen and prepare the body's energy, as well as harmonize it with improving concentration
and willpower.
For the first time, the Olympic sports festival was held in 776 BC as a tribute to the Greek
god Zeus in the city of Olympia on the banks of the Alphecis River in Greece. These Ancient
Olympiads were held every four years. Participants in the Ancient Olympics were only males;
females were not allowed. In 394 BC, Emperor of Rome, Theodosius the Great, who ruled at the
time, stopped and banned the Ancient Olympic Games competitions.
In June 1894, a French scholar of history and education named Baron Pierre de Coubertin,
born in Paris on January 1, 1863, invited and gathered representatives from several countries to
form the Modern Olympics. Then on June 23, 1894, the decision of 15 countries to hold a new-
style Olympics with a sports competition agenda every four years was made. Thus, in 1896 in
Athens (Greece), the Modern Olympics I was held again.
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2.5 Indonesia in the International Sports Arena
Efforts to introduce Indonesia to the international sports world were made by sending our
athletes to the First Asian Games in New Delhi in 1951 and to the XV Olympic Games in Helsinki
in 1952.
The history of sports can teach us a lot about different cultures and societies. From ancient
Greece to Rome and beyond, sports have been an integral part of human civilization. In ancient
times, sports were not just about competition; they were also deeply tied to religious rituals and
cultural practices. The Olympic Games, for example, were originally a religious festival dedicated
to the Greek god Zeus. Over time, however, sports evolved into a form of entertainment and a way
for people to demonstrate their physical prowess and skill. Today, sports continue to play a
significant role in society, bringing people together and providing opportunities for both individual
achievement and communal celebration.
1. Prehistory 2. Ancient China 3. Ancient Egypt 4. Ancient Greece 5. Europe and global
development.
2.7 Prehistory
Many modern discoveries in France, Africa, and Australia in cave paintings (see such as
Lascaux) from prehistoric times provide evidence of ritual ceremony customs. Some of this
evidence dates back 30,000 years ago, based on carbon dating calculations. Stone age paintings
found in the Libyan desert depict various activities, including swimming and archery. The art
itself is evidence of an interest in skills unrelated to survival, and it is evidence that there was
leisure time to enjoy. It also proves other non-functional activities such as rituals and so on. So,
although there is little direct evidence of sports from these sources, it is reasonable to conclude
that there were some activities at that time related to sports. Captain Cook, when he first came to
the Hawaiian Islands in 1778, reported that the native people surfed. Native American Indian
societies engaged in games and sports before the arrival of Europeans, such as lacrosse, some types
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of ball games, running, and other athletic activities. Cultured Maya and Aztec tribes played ball
games seriously. The fields used in the past are still used today. It is reasonable to conclude from
this and other historical sources that sports have roots sourced from humanity itself.
There are artifacts and buildings that indicate that the Chinese were engaged in activities
that we define as sports as early as 4000 BC. The early development of sports activities in China
seems closely related to production, work, war, and entertainment at that time. Gymnastics seems
to have been a popular sport in ancient China. Certainly, as now, such as the famous Chinese
acrobatics skills internationally.
China has the Beijing Museum dedicated to subjects about sports in China and its history. (See
Chinese Sports, Museum)
Monuments to Pharaohs indicate that several sports branches were observed and competed
regularly thousands of years ago, including swimming and fishing. This is not surprising given the
importance of the Nile River to the lives of the Egyptians. Other sports included javelin throwing,
high jumping, and wrestling. (See reference to Ancient Egyptian Sports)
(http://www.us.sis.gov.eg/egyptinf/history/html/hisfrm.htm).) Again, the presence of popular
sports indicates proximity to everyday non-sports activities.
Many sports branches have existed since the time of Ancient Greek Kingdoms. Wrestling,
running, boxing, javelin and discus throwing, and chariot racing were common sports. This
indicates that Greek military culture influenced their sports development. The Olympic Games
were held every four years in Greece. The games were not held only as sporting events but also as
celebrations of individual grandeur, culture, various arts, and also as places to showcase
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architectural and sculptural innovations. Essentially, this event was a time to thank and worship
the Greek Gods. The name of this event was taken from Mount Olympus, considered the sacred
abode of the gods. A ceasefire was declared during the Olympic Games, such as military actions
and executions for the public were suspended. This was done so that people could celebrate
peacefully and compete in a cultured and respectful atmosphere.
Some historians - Bernard Lewis among them - state that team sports are a Western cultural
invention. Individual sports, such as wrestling and archery, have been practiced worldwide. But
team sports traditions, according to these writers, originated from Europe, especially England.
(There are opposing records - including Kabaddi in India and some Mesoamerican ball games.)
Sports began to be organized and held regularly from Ancient Olympics to the present century.
Activities performed to meet life and food needs became activities organized and done for pleasure
or competition on an increasing scale, such as hunting, fishing, and horticulture. The Industrial
Revolution and Mass Production added leisure time, which allowed increased sports audiences,
reduced elitism in sports, and greater access. This trend continued with the rise of mass media and
global communication. Professionalism became common, further enhancing the popularity of
sports. This may contrast with the pure ideals of the Greeks, where winning at games was rewarded
very simply, and honored with an olive wreath. (Perhaps not just an olive leaf crown, some writers
note.) Perhaps as a reaction to contemporary life desires, there are developments in sports best
explained by post-modernism: extreme ironing is an example. There are also new discoveries in
adventure sports in the form of breaking away from the routines of daily life, such as white water
rafting, canyoning, BASE jumping, and, more genteel, orienteering.
The Proclamation of the Republic of Indonesia on August 17, 1945, marked the opening
of the doors of the Indonesian nation from colonial rule. This monumental event marked a new
chapter in the history of the development of this beloved Indonesian nation, including a new
chapter in the development of Indonesian sports. The Indonesian government through the Ministry
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of Education and Teaching, propagated the organization of exercises and physical and mental
rehabilitation that had been damaged during Dutch and Japanese colonial rule. The organization
of sports in schools began to be encouraged. In each province, efforts were made to establish
inspections for physical education, including North Sumatra, Central Sumatra, West Java, Central
Java, Yogyakarta, Solo, and East Java.
Some events that marked the development of sports in the era of independence include the
following:
1. On August 19, 1945, the date of the formation of the first cabinet, an institution was established
within the Ministry of Education and Teaching to plan and implement sports affairs in schools,
namely physical education inspection, an organization under the Education Department. Sports in
the community were managed by an institution under the Community Education Department. The
Ministry of Education and Teaching in carrying out its duties in physical development and
development, among others, conducted: (a) the organization of exercises among Indonesian youth
to achieve and obtain excellent physical conditions as well as preparations for entering the military
which was very necessary at that time; (b) endeavoring to rehabilitate the physical and mental
health of the Indonesian nation to be able to participate in international forums.
2. In September 1945, Dutch troops accompanied Allied forces (British) entered Indonesia,
especially Jakarta. At that time, a sports organization called GELORA (Sports Exercise
Movement) led by Otto Iskandar Dinata as chairman and Soemali Prawirosoedirjo as daily
chairman merged with Djawa Iku Kai (Japanese version of sports center) into the Indonesian
Sports Union (PORI). Considering that the situation in Jakarta was unfavorable due to Dutch
military disturbances, PORI moved to Solo and had its office at Soemono's house, PORI secretary
on Purwosari Street. In January 1947, an Emergency Congress of PORI was held and Mr. Widodo
Sastrodininggrat was elected chairman and Soemali Prawirosoedirjo as deputy chairman, and
Soemono as secretary.
3. In 1947, PORI established relations with the Minister of Development and Youth Wikana. With
the assistance of the minister's secretary Drs. Karnadi, PORI was able to develop its organization,
including: (a) rebuilding scattered and scattered sports branches. (b) Establishing parent
organizations for sports branches that have not been formed, (c) Publishing the magazine
"Pendidikan Djasmani" with a symbol of a burning torch and five rings, (d) Preparing for the First
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National Sports Week. On the night of the inauguration of PORI in January 1947, President
Soekarno also inaugurated KORI (Indonesian Olympic Committee), with Sri Sultan Hamengku
Buwono IX appointed as chairman, drg. Koesmargono and Soemali Prawirodirjo as vice-
chairmen. KORI was tasked with handling sports issues related to the Olympics, at that time KORI
was formed because Indonesia wanted to participate in the 1948 Olympic Games (but because the
preparation of the athletes was inadequate, the dispatch to London did not happen). PORI then
formed bodies (now called parent sports branches). What existed at that time were branches of
football, basketball, athletics, basketball, archery, tennis, badminton, Pencak Silat, and walking.
The finances of PORI and KORI were obtained from government subsidies channeled through the
Ministry of Development and Youth. During the Dutch military action on June 21, 1947 - January
17, 1948, sports activities were practically stopped. On May 2-3, 1948, PORI held a conference in
Solo with the help of the Mayor of Solo (Syamsurizal), PON I was held on September 9-14, 1948,
smoothly, even though the political situation escalated again.
4. The first National Sports Week (PON) in Solo was a very memorable sports week and a
milestone in the important sporting history of the newly independent Indonesian nation. PON I is
a revolutionary PON, a struggle PON, a spreading spirit PON and at the same time a unifying
PON. Regarding PON I, Maladi (former Minister of Sports) expressed his impression, namely:
"PON I in Solo in 1948 made every Indonesian's hair stand on end who witnessed the people along
Yogya-Solo welcoming and honoring the PON flag carried and paraded by thousands of Youth
from the State Building of Yogyakarta to be hoisted at Sriwedari Stadium, Solo. The shout 'Long
Live PON' along with the cry 'Freedom or Death' resounded along Yogya-Solo." It seems
necessary to convey the highest appreciation and gratitude to the sports figures at that time,
especially Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono IX, Paku Alam VIII, GPH Suryohamidjo, GPH
Prabuwijoyo, Nurbambang, and Ali Marsaban. After the national security was restored at the end
of 1949 and the tranquility of the Indonesian nation was achieved, the suspended sports movement
was revived and developed. The concepts that have been initiated and the experiences that have
been gained are used as starting points for developing sports and establishing sports coaching
systems in Indonesia, namely as follows: (a) Sports in schools are directly managed by the
government; (b) Sports in the community are managed by the community itself, with guidance and
supervision by the government; (c) Sports in schools are directly managed, regulated, managed,
and coached by the government, namely assigned to the Ministry of Education, Teaching, and
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Culture, which is implemented by the Central Physical Education Inspection. Physical education
in schools is still called Physical Education. Physical education is an element and tool of education
to prepare and shape a harmonious human between physical growth and spiritual development. In
relation to improving the quality and achievements of Indonesian sports, physical education is only
the basis and search for seeds that will be further developed in the community later.
Due to the uneven growth of schools with the availability of teachers, especially teachers
of physical education, the government has taken the policy to open schools and courses that prepare
teachers of physical education both for elementary schools, secondary schools, and higher
education. Until 1957, all of Indonesia had: (1) six SGPD (Physical Education Teacher Schools)
preparing physical education teachers for elementary schools; (2) seven B1 Physical Education
courses, which prepare teachers for junior high schools (3) a B2 Physical Education course, which
prepares Physical Education teachers for high schools; (4) two Faculties of Physical Education, up
to the level of Associate and Bachelor degrees preparing experts and physical education teachers
in schools, by holding short courses.
To encourage students' learning enthusiasm in the field of sports and to improve the quality
of sports achievements among students, peak sports activities have been held among secondary
schools in the form of Pancalomba. The first Pancalomba was held in Semarang (1952) and the
second Pancalomba was held in Surabaya in 1954. The History and Development of Badminton
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Sports played with a shuttlecock and racket this game possibly developed in ancient Egypt about
2000 years ago. In addition to Egypt, it is also estimated that India and China are the birthplaces
of this game. The origin of this game possibly originated from China, Jianzi. The game used a
shuttlecock but without using a racket but with the foot. The mission of this game is to keep the
shuttlecock from touching the ground for as long as possible without using hands. The Origin of
the Name Badminton In England, since medieval times, children's games called Battledores and
Shuttlecocks were very popular. Children at that time usually used oars or sticks (Battledores) and
played together to keep the shuttlecock in the air and prevent it from touching the ground. This
game was popular enough to be a daily sight on the streets of London in 1854 when Punch
magazine published a cartoon for it.
The British population then brought this game to Japan, China, and Siam (now Thailand)
while they colonized Asia. This game then quickly became a children's game in those areas.
Modern badminton sports as they are now created by British Army officials in Pune, India in the
19th century when they added nets and played them competitively. Because the city of Pune was
previously known as Poona, the game was also known as Poona at that time. The soldiers brought
the game back to England in the 1850s. This sport got its current name in 1860 in a pamphlet by
Isaac Spratt, a British toy distributor, titled "Badminton Battledore-A New Game".
This pamphlet describes the game played at Badminton House, the Duke of Beaufort's
Estate in Gloucestershire, England. Badminton became a popular sport in the world, especially in
East and Southeast Asia, which now dominates this sport, and in the Scandinavian countries.
When the Dutch first exerted their power in Indonesia, since then the development of the
Indonesian nation in almost all aspects of life has been influenced by the Dutch. Likewise, the
development in the aspect of sports, the sports branches that developed are sports branches carried
out in the Netherlands, including when the Japanese occupied Indonesia. While new native sports
developed rapidly when the era of independence, which in policy terms was included in the Broad
Lines of the state during the New Order era.
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Further developments, because the Netherlands itself is in Europe and under the influence of
France, indirectly influence the development of sports in Indonesia, so we know there is a German
sports system, the Swedish sports system, the Austrian sports system, and also Japan. With the
Dutch in Indonesia, especially after the Netherlands had many armies in order to maintain its
existence in Indonesia, then it was seen that sports entered the military environment. Although the
sport began during the time of Ancient Egypt and Ancient Greece, its development in Europe only
became apparent around the Middle Ages, which then also spread and developed in the
Netherlands, then also brought into Indonesia. Sports in Indonesia brought by the Dutch were
certainly in accordance with the state of sports in the Netherlands itself. However, thanks to the
awareness of the Indonesian nation of its culture, even though with some pressure and coercion
from the colonialists, the original culture of the Indonesian nation can still be maintained.
Sports in Indonesia have achieved significant milestones and garnered notable successes
on both national and international stages. Despite various challenges, Indonesian athletes have
continuously strived for excellence, contributing to the nation's sporting legacy in various
disciplines.
One of the notable achievements in Indonesian sports is in badminton. Indonesia has long
been a powerhouse in badminton, with numerous world-class players who have clinched numerous
titles in prestigious tournaments such as the Olympic Games, World Championships, and Thomas
& Uber Cups. Legendary players like Rudy Hartono, Taufik Hidayat, and Susi Susanti have
brought glory to Indonesia and inspired generations of aspiring athletes.
Additionally, Indonesia has made significant strides in football, with the national team
achieving notable successes in regional competitions such as the ASEAN Football Championship
(AFF Suzuki Cup) and the Southeast Asian Games. The country has also produced talented
footballers who have excelled in domestic and international leagues, contributing to the global
football landscape.
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In other sports, Indonesia has also shown prowess in disciplines such as weightlifting, boxing,
pencak silat (traditional martial arts), and sepak takraw. Indonesian athletes have consistently
showcased their skills and determination, earning medals and accolades in various international
competitions.
Moreover, Indonesia has successfully hosted several major sporting events, including the
Asian Games in 1962, 2018, and the Southeast Asian Games. These events have not only
showcased Indonesia's organizational capabilities but also provided opportunities for local athletes
to compete on home soil, fostering national pride and unity.
Despite facing challenges such as limited funding, infrastructure constraints, and stiff
competition from other nations, Indonesian sports continue to thrive due to the dedication and
resilience of athletes, coaches, and sports administrators. With ongoing support and investment in
sports development, Indonesia aims to further elevate its position on the global sporting stage and
inspire future generations of athletes.
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CHAPTER III
CLOSING
Understanding the rich tapestry of history within sports is akin to delving into the very soul of
humanity's journey. From the primal rituals of our ancestors to the intricacies of modern-day
competitions, the history of sport serves as a mirror reflecting our evolution, our aspirations, and
our collective spirit. As we continue to navigate the realms of athleticism, let us not forget the
lessons ingrained in the annals of sporting history – lessons of resilience, camaraderie, and the
relentless pursuit of excellence. For in each triumph and setback lies a story waiting to be told, a
legacy waiting to inspire generations to come. As we stride forward into the ever-unfolding
chapters of athletic endeavor, may we carry with us the wisdom of our sporting forebears, weaving
their tales into the fabric of our own athletic odyssey.
The history of sports in Indonesia provides valuable insights into the development of sports as a
global phenomenon. From ancient times to the present day, sports have played a central role in
human society, shaping cultures, traditions, and identities. By understanding the history of sports,
we can gain a deeper appreciation for the role that sports play in our lives today and the potential
they have to bring people together, promote health and well-being, and foster a sense of community
and belonging. As we look to the future, it is important to continue to celebrate and support sports
as a vital part of human culture and civilization.
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REFERENCES
"The Role of Sports in Society." International Platform on Sport and Development. Accessed May
27, 2024. http://www.fjexpeditions.com/
"Sports in Ancient Egypt." State Information Service, Arab Republic of Egypt. Accessed May 27,
2024. http://www.us.sis.gov.eg/egyptinf/history/html/hisfrm.htm
"Ancient Sports and Athletics." Ancient History Encyclopedia. Accessed May 27, 2024.
https://www.ancient.eu/Sports/
The History of Badminton." Badminton World Federation. Accessed May 27, 2024.
https://corporate.bwfbadminton.com/about/the-history-of-badminton
"The Role of Sports in the Independence Era of Indonesia." Ministry of Education, Republic of
Indonesia. Accessed May 27, 2024. https://www.kemdikbud.go.id/main/blog/2020/03/olahraga-
di-indonesia-pada-zaman-kemerdekaan
"Sport and Society: The Impact of Sports on Culture." University of Michigan Press. Accessed
May 27, 2024. https://www.press.umich.edu/24916/sport_and_society
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