{"product_id":"from-football-to-soccer-the-early-history-of-the-beautiful-game-in-the-united-states-9780252043888","title":"From Football to Soccer: The Early History of the Beautiful Game in the United States","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eLong before the late 1800s, kicking games were played by Native Americans and colonists. These sports developed into professional soccer after World War I, giving women an outlet as athletes and encouraging men to form social bonds. University play and immigrants from the British Isles helped spark the creation of organized soccer in the United States. \u003c\/blockquote\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFormat\u003c\/strong\u003e: Hardback\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLength\u003c\/strong\u003e: 312 pages\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublication date\u003c\/strong\u003e: 13 July 2021\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher\u003c\/strong\u003e: University of Illinois Press\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLong before the advent of soccer in the late 1800s, a rich tapestry of kicking games was woven across North America by native peoples and colonists alike. In his comprehensive examination, Brian D. Bunk delves into the evolution and societal implications of these sports as they transitioned into the professional realm following World War I. As he reveals, the various games referred to as football served as a platform for women to excel as athletes, fostering social connections based on factors such as educational attainment, occupation, ethnic identity, or military service. Moreover, football followed young people to college as higher education expanded in the nineteenth century, contributing to the formation of organized soccer in the United States. The interplay between university play and the influx of immigrants from the British Isles played a pivotal role in shaping the sport's transition into a truly international phenomenon.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA deep dive into the historical significance of one game, From Football to Soccer, challenges the notion that the U.S. exists outside the realm of football history. It sheds light on the diverse origins and evolution of the sport, highlighting its role as a unifying force that transcended boundaries. Through meticulous research and analysis, Bunk unravels the social and cultural implications of football, tracing its journey from local playgrounds to the global stage. The book offers a captivating narrative that explores the impact of football on American society, from its role in shaping national identity to its influence on gender roles and social hierarchies. It also sheds light on the challenges and controversies that have accompanied the sport's growth, highlighting the efforts made to promote diversity, inclusion, and fair play.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn conclusion, From Football to Soccer is a must-read for anyone interested in sports, history, and the complex interplay between society and athletic pursuits. It provides a comprehensive and engaging perspective on the evolution of football in the United States, offering valuable insights into its past, present, and potential future. By exploring the social and cultural dimensions of the sport, Bunk helps us understand the profound impact that football has had on American life and the ongoing efforts to make it a more equitable and inclusive game for all.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimension\u003c\/strong\u003e: 235 x 156 (mm)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13\u003c\/strong\u003e: 9780252043888\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Brian D. Bunk","offers":[{"title":"Hardback","offer_id":44095682740474,"sku":"9780252043888","price":90.38,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0522\/4297\/2845\/products\/1646159871594_book.jpg?v=1646914549","url":"https:\/\/shulphink.com\/products\/from-football-to-soccer-the-early-history-of-the-beautiful-game-in-the-united-states-9780252043888","provider":"Shulph Ink","version":"1.0","type":"link"}