Soccer, known as football in most parts of the world, has a rich and diverse history that spans millennia and continents. Here’s a concise overview:

Ancient Origins

• China: As early as the 2nd and 3rd centuries BCE, during the Han Dynasty, a game called cuju was played, involving kicking a leather ball into a net without using hands.
• Greece and Rome: Ancient Greeks played episkyros, and Romans had harpastum, both of which involved ball games that are considered precursors to modern soccer.

Medieval Europe

• Mob Football: In medieval England, large groups played chaotic matches known as “mob football,” with varying rules and often involving entire villages.
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19th Century England

• Standardization: In 1863, the Football Association (FA) was established in England, creating standardized rules and distinguishing soccer from rugby.
• Global Spread: British sailors, merchants, and soldiers introduced the game worldwide, leading to its global popularity.

20th Century and Beyond

• FIFA Formation: In 1904, the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) was founded to oversee international competition.
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• World Cup: The inaugural FIFA World Cup was held in 1930 in Uruguay, establishing soccer as a global sport.

Today, soccer is the world’s most popular sport, played and cherished by millions across diverse cultures.