Allen Guttmann Livres

Exploring the evolution of sports over five millennia, this study highlights how various games, from ancient Egyptian archery to modern American baseball, reflect and influence their respective cultures. Allen Guttmann examines the historical trajectory of sports, revealing a common pattern of transition from traditional to modern forms across different continents and epochs. This comprehensive narrative provides a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of sports and society throughout history.

Originally published in 1978, this book was one of the first to recognize the importance of sports as a lens on the fundamental structure of societies. In this reissue, Guttmann emphasizes the many ways that modern sports, dramatically different from the sports of previous eras, have profoundly shaped contemporary life.

Politics has always been an integral part of the Olympics. This title discusses the intended and actual meaning of the modern Olympic Games, from 1896 to 2000. It demonstrates that the modern games were revived to propagate a political message and continue to serve political purposes.

An exploration of the ways in which modern sports have spread from their Western roots to all corners of the globe. Could this be another form of cultural imperialism?

This book offers a visually captivating journey through the representation of sports in American art from the eighteenth century to the present. It examines how artists have captured the spirit of athleticism, competition, and leisure, showcasing a diverse range of styles and media. Through its extensive illustrations, the work highlights the cultural significance of sports and their influence on American identity, reflecting broader social themes and historical contexts.