Watch History of Soccer

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 and on HISTORY Vault