History of Fencing
Fencing evolved from an ancient form of combat. Pictorial carvings from a temple in Egypt dating back to 1190 BC show fencers at play. Many other civilizations like those of China, Persia, Babylonia, Japan and Greece trained its people in swordplay for combat. Fencing as a sport began in the 14th or 15th century, with both Italy and Germany laying claim as the original home of the sport.
Fencing has had an interesting history. The use of armor in the Middle Ages made swordplay almost, well, history. Then, the use of firearms dealt a deathblow to the use of armor and revived the art of swordplay among soldiers in the 15th century. Around this time, Fencing also emerged as a pastime for gentlemen, and fencing masters organized guilds.
With the invention of the long, light rapier blade in the 16th century in Italy, Fencing gained prominence as a test of skill and quick reflexes. Lighter and stronger than the rapier, the court sword became an invaluable tool for fencers since it could be use for attack as well as defense. The foil was a later advance on the court sword. Today’s epee developed from another type of dueling sword called the colichemarde. The third of the fencing swords, the saber was introduced to Europe in the 18th century as an adaptation of the Turkish scimitar. The modern saber is straight with one cutting edge for making hits.
Did you know that Fencing is one of just four sports that have been in every modern Olympic Games?
