Both the first and second editions of this book were extremely well received for use in undergraduate and graduate courses in physical education and allied fields of recreation. This success has brought about this third edition which updates each chapter into the twenty-first century, thoroughly tracing the the sources and development of today-centss games, sports, dances, and physical education programs. Major topics include: the games of native Americans; recreational and sporting activities of colonial Americans; adaptation of sports by the westward pioneers; influences of urbanization, industrialization, and invention on leisure time activities of Americans; changes in sport and physical education brought about by women's rights legislation; the development of sophisticated physical education programs; the progress of professional teacher preparation in physical education; the evolution of dance in America; the influence of warfare on physical education and sport; men's sports programs; women's sports programs; and the history of American involvement and accomplishments in the Olympic Games. This updated text is not only exceedingly comprehensive but is further enhanced with many new illustrations. Physical education professionals and students as well as those in allied recreation fields will find this book to be an essential reference."