Introduction

The history and development of sport around the world reflects our own growth and evolution as people, societies and cultures. In this handbook, we share the stories of how more than 40 sports were created, developed and spread across the globe. Along the way, we explore the key people and movements that propelled each sport along its path. Authors from Europe, North America, Latin American and the Caribbean, Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Australia have contributed their knowledge and understanding to this collection. Within each chapter, we sought to include perspectives from women, people of colour, people with disabilities and people from the Global South, giving voice to those often written out of history.