English Gentlemen and World Soccer: Corinthians, Amateurism and the Global Game

The Corinthians Football Club, founded in 1882, was a significant formative influence on football in Britain from the 1880s to the 1930s. They were a touring club that traveled to South Africa, Europe, Canada, the United States, and Brazil, and were the self-proclaimed standard bearers for gentlemanly values in sport. Despite their playing strength and influence waning after the First World War, they remained a significant force through to 1939, upholding true blue amateurism at a time when football was increasingly associated with professionalism and seen as a branch of commercial entertainment. This is the first complete scholarly history to cover their activities both in England and in other parts of the world, and critically reassesses the club's role in the development of football and fills a gap in existing literature on the relationship between the progress of the game in England and globally.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 154 pages
Publication date: 25 February 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Corinthians Football Club, founded in 1882, has garnered widespread recognition among historians of football and sports historians alike. As a super club comprising the finest amateur talent available, they exerted a significant formative influence on football in Britain from the 1880s to the 1930s. As a touring club, they embarked on pioneering expeditions to South Africa in 1897, regularly venturing into Europe, as well as to Canada, the United States, and Brazil. They proudly proclaimed themselves as the standard bearers of gentlemanly values in sport. Indeed, for many years, the Corinthians were the most renowned football club in the world, captivating massive crowds and playing a pivotal role in ensuring that the version of football originating from English public schools and universities in the mid-nineteenth century expanded to become a global phenomenon. While their playing strength and influence waned after the First World War, they remained a significant force until 1939, steadfastly upholding true blue amateurism amidst the growing association of football with professionalism and its perception as a branch of commercial entertainment.

While substantial literature has been written about the Corinthians, primarily from the perspective of club insiders, this book represents the first comprehensive scholarly account of the club's activities both in England and across the globe. It offers a critical reassessment of the club's role in the development of football and fills a gap in existing literature on the relationship between the progress of the game in England and its global expansion. Most importantly, the book delves into the sporting ideology of gentlemanly amateurism within the context of late-nineteenth and early-twentieth-century society.

The Corinthians Football Club's significance extends beyond its football prowess. Founded in 1882, the club has played a pivotal role in shaping the sport's history and culture. As a super club, they assembled a team of talented amateur players, setting a high standard for excellence on the field. Their influence extended beyond Britain, as they embarked on pioneering tours to various countries, promoting the game and spreading gentlemanly values.

During their heyday, the Corinthians were the most famous football club in the world. Their matches drew massive crowds, and their style of play captivated fans worldwide. The club's commitment to amateurism set them apart from professional teams, and they were revered for their sportsmanship and fair play.

The Corinthians' impact on football was far-reaching. They played a significant role in developing the rules and regulations of the game, and their innovations in tactics and strategy influenced the development of football across the globe. They also played a key role in promoting the sport's internationalization, as they toured countries and played against top teams from different regions.

In addition to their on-field achievements, the Corinthians were known for their commitment to social responsibility. They were involved in various charitable endeavors, and their players were respected for their community service and philanthropy. The club's motto, "For the Love of the Game," reflected their dedication to the sport and their commitment to promoting positive values.

Despite their success and influence, the Corinthians faced challenges throughout their history. The First World War significantly impacted their playing strength, and they struggled to maintain their position as a top club. However, they remained resilient and continued to uphold their amateurism principles.

In conclusion, the Corinthians Football Club's significance cannot be overstated. Founded in 1882, they have played a pivotal role in shaping the history and culture of football. As a super club, they assembled a team of talented amateur players and set a high standard for excellence on the field. Their influence extended beyond Britain, as they embarked on pioneering tours to various countries, promoting the game and spreading gentlemanly values. The Corinthians' impact on football was far-reaching, as they played a significant role in developing the rules and regulations of the game, innovating in tactics and strategy, and promoting the sport's internationalization. They were also known for their commitment to social responsibility and their motto, "For the Love of the Game," reflected their dedication to the sport and their commitment to promoting positive values. Despite facing challenges throughout their history, the Corinthians have remained a symbol of football excellence and a testament to the power of amateurism in sports.

Weight: 395g
Dimension: 214 x 135 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367180973