HST 275 "History of Soccer"
This course examines the history of the world’s most popular sport – soccer. Here we will learn about how the game developed and also see how it has reflected massive social, cultural and economic change as well. We will discuss the professionalization and commercialization of the great game, while also seeing how it became a key site for identity politics. We’ll also will think about the way the game is played, packaged, marketed and consumed by individuals and groups around the globe.
Image: “England vs. Scotland.” Illustrated Sporting and Dramatic News (1875)
Readings (click on the image for an Amazon link):
Required. Franklin Foer’s provocative collection of essays will serve as our basic textbook, providing a basis for conversations about how soccer reflects various social phenomena will serve as the main textbook for our class. In particular, the wide ranging essays should stimulate discussion and show the academic value of studying soccer.
Recommended. David Goldblatt’s exhaustive history of soccer covers all continents and time periods. It is not required reading, but may help fill in some of the historical blanks we don’t have time to cover.
Optional. A collection of thought provoking essays on soccer by journalists Simon Kuper and Stefan Szymanski, several of which we will read in our course. Other essays discuss why certain nation have strong soccer cultures while others do not, along with predictions for the future.
Optional. Luke Dempsey’s encyclopedic overview of major European teams is both concise and thorough. An excellent resource to familiarize yourself with the history of the world’s major clubs, including smaller teams from the US, Europe, South America and Asia.
Additional Readings that may be of interest:
