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History Extra podcast
Sport's strangest tales
Nov 25, 2024
In this engaging discussion, James Harkin and Anna Ptaszynski, both QI researchers and co-hosts of No Such Thing as a Fish, delve into the quirky history of sports. They explore the evolution of ancient games into modern sports, revealing the surprising links between sports and warfare. Cheating and doping scandals take center stage, showcasing bizarre incidents and their psychological underpinnings. The conversation also highlights pioneering women in sports, particularly the first woman to cycle around the globe, and the evolving relationship between fans and their beloved games.
46:32
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Quick takeaways
- The evolution of sports is deeply rooted in human nature, showcasing an innate desire to compete and connect through play.
- Cheating in sports, exemplified by the concept of 'cheater's high,' highlights innovation and the lengths athletes will go for victory.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Sports
Sports have existed for thousands of years, with evidence suggesting that humans were engaging in some form of sport even before they were fully evolved. Anthropological studies indicate that our physical anatomy, such as the structure of our toes and jaws, supports physical activities like running and boxing, reinforcing our instinctual drive for play. The discussion highlights ancient sports like wrestling depicted in cave paintings over 15,000 years old and Mesoamerican ball games that took place around 4,000 years ago, which were characterized by their organized nature and diverse purposes, including potential human sacrifices. This historical context demonstrates that the inception and evolution of sports are deeply intertwined with human nature itself, suggesting a universal urge to compete and engage with others through play.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode