Exam questions Flashcards
Explain how the modern-day amateur differs from an amateur of the 19th century.
In the 19th century amateurs played for no financial gain and only played sport because they loved it. However, comparing this to a modern-day amateur they will receive financial gain even though they are not professionals. One difference between the modern-day amateur compared to a 19th century amateur is a 19th century amateur tended to have a higher status compared to a professional. However, in a more modernised society amateurs are not seen as anywhere near the level of a professional. A second point is a 19th century amateur was usually a member of the middle/upper class due to them having a sufficient income meaning they can play for the enjoyment and not for financial gain. Whereas on the other hand, a modern-day amateur can come from any socio-economical background.
Explain how very clear distinctions were maintained between social classes during the 19th and early 20th centuries in terms of their participation in sport and physical activity.
In the 19th century there was a clear class divide between the upper and lower class and was shown with the way they were treated in sport. Firstly, there was a variety of membership rules at clubs which were used to exclude the working class. Consequently, when playing a team game such as football it limited the amount of people in the squad. A second way which showed the clear class divide was the lower class had restricted access to facilities such as club houses, purposeful built facilities and also weekday matches. As a result, this made it very difficult for the lower class to improve their skill set as there was very little opportunity. A final reason in which the clear class divide was shown was by there were clear distinctions made between gentlemen and players while also professionals and amateurs. For example, things like rugby league and rugby union was a clear example of the class divide in sport.
Explain how lawn tennis helped the emancipation of women in the late 19th century.
Back in the 19th century sports were usually deemed violent and un-lady like for women to play. However, lawn tennis was the first sport which gave women an opportunity to play and participate in sport. One reason for this was because it removed the stereotype of women not being able to participate in sport. This was quickly deemed as not true as women started to begin beating men in matches. A second reason how lawn tennis helped the emancipation of women was it was acceptable by the middle classes. This was because, the middle class invented lawn tennis due to some of them having tennis courts in their gardens allowing them to play. As a result, this was really the first time men and women were seen playing the same sport together. A final way how lawn tennis helped emancipation of women in the late 19th century was women were able to join clubs. As a result, this increased the amount of participation of women in sport and even created the opportunity for it to be played in all girls schools.
