Beginnings Around the World
Ancient Times
Some form of soccer or “football” is dated back to over 2,000 years ago. There is evidence of a sport being played in ancient Chinese and Mediterranean cultures with a ball made from animal skin stuffed with hair.
Europe
The sport we know today can be traced back to 19th century England, with first football association being formed in 1863. While the rules were very different than what we know today, this was the time when the primary rule of soccer was determined: not being allowed to use your hands. This separated this new sport of soccer from the previously established sport of rugby. The sport soon spread to other European nations.
South America
Soccer is now strongly associated with Latin and South America. However, the sport’s origins in this area of the world came from European sailors in Argentina. Soccer was introduced to Argentina in the 1860s, with the first South American soccer club, Buenos Aires Football Club, being formed in 1867. From then, soccer became increasingly popular throughout the continent, with teams often being associated with schools.
The Rest of The World
Soccer was brought to the rest of the world primarily through European influence and colonization. The sport became common and popular in Africa, Asia, North America, and even Oceania throughout the late 19th century.
References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Football_in_Spain
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argentine_Primera_Divisi%C3%B3n
