Skiing is one of the oldest modes of transportation known, predating the
wheel with dated artifacts to prove its pedigree. Skiing for sport,
however, did not become common until about 150 years ago. The first
Winter Olympic Games, held in Chamonix, France in 1924, were the first
to introduce skiing as a competition. Events were held in both ski
jumping and cross-country skiing. With advances in technology and
increased leisure time, the popularity of skiing as a sport has risen
exponentially since it was first introduced. The Historical Dictionary
of Skiing relates the history of the sport through a comprehensive
alphabetical dictionary with detailed, cross-referenced entries on key
figures, places, competitions, and governing bodies within the sport.
Author E. John B. Allen introduces the reader to the history of skiing
through a detailed chronology, an introductory essay, appendixes and an
extensive bibliography. This book is an excellent access point for
researchers, students, and anyone interested in the history of skiing.