History and Rules of Golf

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Although the popular notion is that the game of golf originated in Scotland in the mid-1400s, the truth is, no one really knows. Various forms of the sport have been played in England, France, Holland, Belgium, and even China. As other sports have promoted personalities, golf has steadfastly maintained its sense of decorum and tradition, rewarding only those who prove their mettle on the course. However, golf's love of tradition hasn't prevented it from establishing a strong Web presence in the 21st century. Whether you're just beginning or have already let golf take over your life, you'll find plenty of resources that can help you to brush up on the rules, obsess over tournaments, or improve your game.

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History and Rules of Golf

Golf is a simple game; the goal is to put the tiny white ball into the small hole in the ground with the fewest swings of your club. Of course, that is easier said than done and, like most sports, golf has its share of obscure rules and unique terminology. Learning the history, rules, and etiquette of the game is sure to increase your enjoyment out on the links.

Dulcinea's Insight

In addition to the sites listed below, nearly all of the major professional golf sites will have at least a brief synopsis on the history and rules of the game as well as instructional links. ESPN even sponsors a Beginners Tour that offers "instruction addressing basic aspects of the game, including grip, posture, scoring, etiquette, and other fundamentals."

Golf is somewhat like poker in regards to the variations of the game. There is stroke play, stroke play with handicaps, match play, closest to the pin contests, and a myriad of other alternative forms of play.

For the history of a particular tour, look in the next section for tour links. Each link should have a history page.

Remember, the game of golf involves hitting a small sphere of hardened rubber hundreds of yards at a time. Therefore, learning proper course etiquette is not only a matter of academic interest; it can be vital to one's safety

Dulcinea's Picks

For golf history...

GolfEurope.com offers a peek at the game, complete with photos and illustrations, from 1497 to the present.

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Ruleshistory.com offers a history of the rules of the game, showing the Royal and Ancient Golf Club's (R&A) rulebooks at any given time. Content can be sorted by time period or by rule.

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For golf rules and regulations ...

The United States Golf Association has the full Rules of Golf, which are created and interpreted by the USGA and The R&A.

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