History of Football: The Beautiful Game

The origins of the game: it looks at the various possible beginnings from many different nations including China, Mexico, Japan and Italy. Many countries lay claim to being the inventors of the sport and many can prove very early forms, some of these are still re-enacted to this day.

The varying cultures and how they have developed the same basic game to incorporate their own cultural diversity.

How football took its shape in Europe.

This episode looks at the clubs that have become the big powers in European football.

Considered by many to be the most prolific nation in football terms, this episode looks at the South Americans and their impact on the game.

This episode looks at the South American region and goes into great detail of its history.

The first topic of focus in this episode is the French and how they have recently become a force in world football, since their memorable win on home soil in the 1998 World Cup. How playing for a club can sometimes conflict with international duty as clubs have tried for many years to restrict their players participating in international matches through fear of injury.

The general perception of the public around the world is that football fans are hooligans and racists and this episode shows some examples of why this perception is held.

The general public who have no idea about football will still be aware of some of the biggest names in the game the superstars. Names such as Maradona, Pele and Ronaldo are instantly recognisable.

The football media and how they are both needed for the game and at times its worst enemy. Without the media the game would never reach the world audience that it does or create as much interest. The bad side is when they publicise football violence, drug scandals and the like. How media effects the players. Early forms of media are also covered, along with the importance of radio before television made such an important impact.

The growth of football in Africa. It covers how the game was first introduced and the changes it has undergone over the years.

The history of FIFA, covering its inception 1904. It looks at the rule of Jules Rimet as president from 1921 until 1962 and the reign of Stanley Rous until replaced by Havelange in 1974. How FIFA grows with the aid of big business and the politics that accompany its growth.

What does the future hold for football? Will it remain the dominant sport? This episode looks at the continued growth in countries such as China, India, the Middle East, Korea and Japan, all hugely populated areas with a hunger for football.