Focusing on the historical context of women's sports in Italy from 1861 to 1945, this text explores the influence of fascism on female physical culture. It highlights how women were constrained by frameworks of medicine, eugenics, and traditional education during the fascist era, despite the regime's promises of emancipation. The book illustrates that participation in sports did foster some gender emancipation, but ultimately, post-war challenges hindered further progress for women in athletics.
Sport historians present diverse and compelling approaches to the role of gender in sport history, showcasing the discipline's richness and creativity. This collection of studies emphasizes the complexities of gender, both thematically and geographically, while challenging traditional thinking and illuminating women's roles in various physical activities. Each chapter introduces unique perspectives that question established norms and highlight women's capabilities in sports and leadership, demonstrating the ongoing challenges faced by women and girls due to gender and cultural constraints.
The studies in this transnational collection serve as insightful examples of "doing gender" in sport and physical education, offering opportunities to decode and debate gender arrangements. They inspire critical engagement with the complexities of contemporary life. Contributions include explorations of ancient female athletes, the evolution of women's roles in dance and sports, and the historical context of female spectatorship. The collection also addresses women's fight for recognition in the Olympic arena and the impact of gender on sports education and communication in society. Overall, it underscores the importance of understanding the intricate dynamics of gender in sports history and its relevance to today's discussions.
This volume compiles numerous papers from expert historians and emerging researchers in sport and physical education, who convened in Italy from 34 countries for the VIII ISHPES Congress in Urbino. The proceedings offer a fresh historical perspective on the Congress theme, Sport and Education in History, exploring its various forms across different epochs and cultures. A significant focus is the integration of basic gymnastics and sports into educational institutions, from elementary to university levels, contributing to nation-building, citizenship, and gender identity formation. Throughout history, when the state prioritizes personal care of the body, there emerges a heightened need for education and social cohesion, prompting discussions and reevaluations among thinkers, educators, and political figures. Additionally, promoting physical activities for adults during leisure time serves as another avenue for education and social integration, often influenced by the dynamics of group identity and political propaganda. The complex relationships between sport and education manifest in diverse societies and organizations worldwide, particularly today, as modern sports intersect with education, health, recreation, marketing, business, and national pride.
