Kugelstoßen (Boule-Spiel)

Title

Kugelstoßen (Boule-Spiel)

Illustration shows Parisians playing boules. Based on the original drawing by Regnault Henri (1843–1871).

ca. 1870

Artist

Bertrano

Historical Description

Shot put is one of the oldest track and field events. Its roots go back to antiquity: even in the Greek and Roman games, heavy stones or metal balls were thrown to demonstrate strength. In its modern form, shot put developed in the 19th century in Scotland and England, where stones were thrown during the so-called Highland Games. Later, standardized iron or brass balls were introduced. Shot put was included in the program of the first modern Olympic Games in Athens in 1896 (for men only). The women’s competition was added much later, in 1948 at the London Games.