The History of Football: The Reach and Impact of Football in America and Around the World

Football’s influence extends far beyond the field, shaping everything from cheerleading to youth sports. This course examines football’s global reach and its impact on American culture, including its role in the rise of cheerleading and youth football. Participants will also confront the sport’s shadow side, particularly the risks of brain injuries for players and the ongoing efforts to address these challenges. Through in-depth analysis, learners will gain a better understanding of football’s physical, cultural, and social footprint.

Learning Objectives

• Explain why cheerleading has grown in popularity over time and why it remains a controversial aspect of football culture.
• Discuss youth football's rise in popularity and the current challenges faced by the sport.
• Explain the NFL's and NCAA's historic attempts to downplay the seriousness of brain injuries and describe the measures currently being taken to manage and minimize the human physical toll of football.

Prior Learning

This noncredit course is beginner-friendly, with no prior expertise required. However, to ensure success, students should:

• Be comfortable reading and understanding English, as all materials are provided in English.
• Have basic computer skills, including navigating the internet, downloading/uploading files, installing software, and using applications like Microsoft Word.

These foundational skills will help you engage fully with our primarily online courses.

This is the fourth and final course of the History of Football Series, offering a holistic view of how football impacts lives both on and off the field. Participants are encouraged to explore the full series for a richer understanding of the game’s history and cultural significance