History of Soccer

Watch History of Soccer

  • 2018
  • 1 Season

History of Soccer from HISTORY Vault is a fascinating and comprehensive documentary series that explores the evolution of the world's most popular sport. From its origins in ancient China to its modern-day dominance across the globe, this show takes viewers on a journey through the rich and complex history of soccer.

The series is divided into six episodes, each one examining a different era in the development of the sport. The first episode focuses on the origins of soccer, tracing its roots back to the Han Dynasty in China over 2000 years ago. The series then moves forward in time, exploring the medieval game of mob football, the codification of soccer rules in 19th century England, and the emergence of international tournaments like the World Cup and European Championships.

One of the strengths of the series is its attention to detail in chronicling the key events, players, and teams that have shaped the game of soccer over the centuries. The show includes rare archival footage and interviews with soccer legends like Pele, Diego Maradona, and Lionel Messi. It also features expert analysis from leading historians and soccer experts, who provide valuable insights into the social, cultural, and political factors that have influenced the development of soccer.

Another standout aspect of History of Soccer is its exploration of the broader historical context in which the sport has evolved. Each episode places soccer within a wider framework of historical events, such as the Industrial Revolution, the rise of nationalism and imperialism, and the Cold War. By doing so, the series sheds light on the ways in which soccer has both reflected and shaped the world around it.

Throughout the series, viewers are treated to an array of interesting tidbits and trivia about the sport. For example, did you know that the first soccer game played under official rules took place in 1863 and ended in a 0-0 draw? Or that women's soccer was actually more popular than men's soccer in England in the early 20th century? Or that the famous "hand of God" goal scored by Maradona in the 1986 World Cup was actually a deliberate handball?

Overall, History of Soccer from HISTORY Vault is a must-watch for any soccer fan or amateur historian interested in the evolution of the beautiful game. With its expertly crafted narrative, fascinating archival footage, and engaging interviews, this series offers a rich and nuanced exploration of soccer's storied past. Whether you're a diehard fan of the sport or simply curious about its history, this show is sure to entertain and enlighten.

History of Soccer is a series that ran for 1 seasons (15 episodes) between June 8, 2018 and on HISTORY Vault

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Seasons
Soccer's Greatest Head-to-Head: Van Basten vs Klinsmann
15. Soccer's Greatest Head-to-Head: Van Basten vs Klinsmann
June 8, 2018
Van Basten or Klinsmann? Our panel of experts apply the latest in science, data, and their own experiences to even the playing field and fiercely debate who is truly the world's greatest player.
Beckham vs Bale
14. Beckham vs Bale
June 8, 2018
Beckham or Bale? Our panel of experts apply the latest in science, data, and their own experiences to even the playing field and fiercely debate who is truly the world's greatest player.
Zidane vs Platini
13. Zidane vs Platini
June 8, 2018
Zidane or Platini? Our panel of experts apply the latest in science, data, and their own experiences to even the playing field and fiercely debate who is truly the world's greatest player.
Messi vs Ronaldo
12. Messi vs Ronaldo
June 8, 2018
Messi or Ronaldo? Our panel of experts apply the latest in science, data, and their own experiences to even the playing field and fiercely debate who is truly the world's greatest player.
Soccer's Greatest Head-to-Head: Pele vs Maradona
11. Soccer's Greatest Head-to-Head: Pele vs Maradona
June 8, 2018
Pele or Maradonä Our panel of experts apply the latest in science, data, and their own experiences to even the playing field and fiercely debate who is truly the world's greatest player.
Soccer Godfathers: Louis Van Gaal
10. Soccer Godfathers: Louis Van Gaal
June 8, 2018
Louis Van Gaal, who won 20 titles as a coach, reveals his soccer philosophy, how he coped with his wife's death, and how he won league championships in three different countries. Interviewed by Geoff Shreeves.
Soccer Godfathers: Claudio Ranieri
9. Soccer Godfathers: Claudio Ranieri
June 8, 2018
He masterminded the 'Miracle of Leicester', the improbable Premier league triumph of Leicester City football club. Discover the truth about Ranieri's numerous sackings and how he earned the nickname, The Tinkerman.
Soccer Godfathers: Roy Hodgson
8. Soccer Godfathers: Roy Hodgson
June 8, 2018
Roy Hodgson was knocked down only to make a comeback. He helped revolutionize soccer in Sweden, won titles in multiple countries, led Fulham to the Europa league final, and managed the English national team.
Soccer Godfathers: Sven Goran Erikkson
7. Soccer Godfathers: Sven Goran Erikkson
June 8, 2018
He went from Swedish third division to champion of Italy's Serie A, winning a European trophy with a team of part timers. As their past manager, see how Eriksson feels England should have done in the 2006 World Cup.
Soccer Godfathers: Gerard Houllier
6. Soccer Godfathers: Gerard Houllier
June 8, 2018
Gerard Houllier went from schoolteacher to treble-winning manager with Liverpool FC. Interviewed by Sky Sports correspondent and reporter, Geoff Shreeves, Houllier reveals how the game he loves, almost killed him.
Soccer's Greatest Moments: Seven Goals That Shook the World
5. Soccer's Greatest Moments: Seven Goals That Shook the World
June 8, 2018
The world's two most successful football nations - host nation Brazil and Germany - collided in the semi-finals with a shuddering impact. At the final whistle, it was Germany's win, 7-1; it was a national nightmare for Brazil, from which it has since struggled to recover.
Soccer's Greatest Moments: Bring Me The Head Of Diego Armando Maradona
4. Soccer's Greatest Moments: Bring Me The Head Of Diego Armando Maradona
June 8, 2018
Diego Maradona's career played out over 16 years, three continents, and five World Cups. His is a tale of rejection, shame, redemption, revenge, and glory.
Soccer's Greatest Moments: The Three Musketeers: France '98
3. Soccer's Greatest Moments: The Three Musketeers: France '98
June 8, 2018
The fates of three men who would ultimately end up in the same club team defined the 1998 World Cup. David Beckham, Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo Luis Nazário de Lima enjoyed very contrasting fortunes.
Soccer's Greatest Moments: Return to Turin: Italia '90
2. Soccer's Greatest Moments: Return to Turin: Italia '90
June 8, 2018
Cameroon, one of the World Cup's newest entrants, and veteran goal scorer Roger Milla beat defending champion Argentina in their first game, leading to one of the most remarkable tournaments of modern times.
Soccer's Greatest Moments: Pele, Argentina and the Dictators
1. Soccer's Greatest Moments: Pele, Argentina and the Dictators
June 8, 2018
Led by the extraordinary genius of Pele, Brazil's 1970 team was the embodiment of unique Brazilian style built on flair and raw skill. Immortalized in their 4-1 thrashing of former two-time world champions Italy.
Description
Where to Watch History of Soccer
History of Soccer is available for streaming on the HISTORY Vault website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch History of Soccer on demand at Amazon Prime.
  • Premiere Date
    June 8, 2018