While many countries have a valid claim to an early game that resembles the game of golf, the origins of golf are without a doubt routed in Scotland's past. The fact is, golf probably derived from other countries and stick and ball type games. However, while these are stick and ball games, they are missing that vital ingredient that is unique to golf. The hole. It was the Scots who introduced the golf hole into the game we now call golf. Over the centuries, golf has evolved into the game it is today. The first recognizable form being played in Scotland in the early 1400's. Andrews, Scotland is the birthplace of the game golf. Originating on the east coast of Scotland, golf quickly became the Scots' national pastime and passion, bound forever to Scotland's history and people. According to Scottish lore, the people of Scotland believes that Golf was invented by Scottish fishermen to amuse themselves on the way home from fishing. In 1457 golf was banned in Scotland because it interfered with the practice of archery, which was vital to the defense effort. The ban on golf had been issued in a time when Scotland was preparing to defend itself from the English. Scotland can say that they are the founding fathers in regards to the oldest golf course. It was in Scotland that the passion for golf came alive. There is general agreement among historians and golf fans alike that the Scots were the first golfers who became somewhat addicted and passionate about the sport. In the very early days of golf, each golf group in Scotland produced their own and unique rules, which was sometimes the cause for interesting discussions. Golf is still a very popular game today in Scotland today. The game of golf soon spread to areas outside of Scotland. In one form or another, the variant games of present day golf were clearly enjoyed throughout Europe in the Middle Ages. In fact in seventeenth century Dutch landscapes commonly show golf being played on ice. The game of golf began its destiny in time towards becoming popular around the world. |
