20th Century Britain

Question 1

Social class was still a feature of early 20th century sport but to a lesser extent than in pre and post industrial Britain. Using practical examples outline how social class shaped the characteristics of, and participation in, sport in 20th century Britain?

Answer 1

1. Upper and working classes played side by side in some sport. For example cricket.
2. Participation in some sports still associated with the middle classes. For example golf, rowing, tennis.
3. Amateurism dominated by middle class. For example rugby union.
4. Professionalism associated with working class. For example football and rugby league.

Question 2

Outline how gender shaped the characteristics of, and participation in, sport in early 20th century Britain?

Answer 2

1. Crowds at professional sports matches overwhelmingly male orientated.
2. Female participation in sport increasing however still limited, especially for working class women but the status of women in sport improving.
3. Women competing in tennis, equestrianism, etc.

Question 3

Outline how law and order shaped the characteristics of sport in the late 19th and early 20th century Britain?

Answer 3

The more lawful society of the late 19th and early 20th century shaped sport into the form it would keep until the 1960’s.

Question 4

Outline how education shaped the characteristics of sport in 20th century Britain?

Answer 4

Education because more and more universal in the 20th century. Education (especially the Education act of 1944) made physical activity and sport compulsory, so providing more provision for sport. Increased literacy also led to a boom in sporting media.

Question 5

Outline how availability of time and money shaped the characteristics of sport in 20th century Britain?

Answer 5

Leisure time and disposable income became greater meaning more participation possible and variety of sports available greater. Gambling remained important. Opportunities still dependant on amount of income - linked to social class.

Question 6

Outline how transport shaped the characteristics of sport in 20th century Britain?

Answer 6

Transport continued to improve and became more available to more people making sport more accessible as a participant and/or a spectator. Development of air travel towards the middle an end of the century contributed to the globalisation of sport.