sourced by JMJF
The present day game of BOWLING has very interesting origins. First, the word is derived from the Latin word Bulla, meaning “Bubble”. Over time, Bulla evolved into Bowl, which meant either the round ball itself or the act of throwing or delivering the ball. However, there is conclusive proof that similar games existed way before the Europeans played it. For example, an archaeologist discovered complete paraphernalia used in an ancient bowling game in a gravesite in Egypt that dates back to over 5000 BC.
Like golf, some kings and monarchs felt that such a sport would detract from the more manly pursuits that would help build up proficiency in war. Again, archery was felt to be the superior sport for men to engage in. Not surprisingly, bowling games were officially banned, and a record of this is traced to the time of Richard II in England. The womanizing king Henry XVIII also banned the sport by managed to build himself an alley in Whitehall for his personal amusement and pleasure.
The game was brought to the United States by the Dutch, and played it in Bowling Green (!), which now is home to the financial district of New York.
Comment Preview