Colonial diffusion of sport across the British Empire

Overview

Colonial diffusion through the army, the church, industry and education, cricket in the Caribbean and India, sport as control and as a symbol of independence, rugby in New Zealand and South Africa, and football's wider spread.

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Questions from this subtopic

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1. 1

   What is meant by the colonial diffusion of sport?

   Model answer

   Colonial diffusion is the spread of British sports to the countries of the British Empire. British games took root across the world.

2. 2

   How did the army spread sport across the Empire?

   Model answer

   Soldiers played games in their postings and taught them to local people. Sport was also used to keep troops fit and disciplined.

3. 3

   How did the Church spread sport across the Empire?

   Model answer

   Missionaries used games to teach Christian values and discipline. Missionary schools introduced sports to local children.

4. 4

   How did industry spread sport across the Empire?

   Model answer

   British engineers and workers took football and other games abroad. Businesses set up teams for their workers.

5. 5

   How did education spread sport across the Empire?

   Model answer

   Teachers from the public schools introduced games in colonial schools. Schools passed on the games ethic alongside the sports.

6. 6

   Which sports spread most widely through the Empire?

   Model answer

   Cricket, rugby and football spread most widely. Cricket became central in India, Australia and the West Indies.

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