Was the Industrial Revolution a Sporting Revolution?

The Industrial Revolution was a period of major industrialisation that took place during the late 1700s and early 1800s. The Industrial Revolution, beginning in Great Britain, quickly spread throughout the world. This time period saw the mechanisation of agriculture and textile manufacturing and a revolution in power (i.e., steam ships and railroads) and had a massive effect on social, cultural and economic conditions. The Industrial Revolution had an enormous effect on Sport in Britain. Many changes that may appear far from linked to sport had a direct effect on how sport was played, when sport was played, and how much more sport was encompassed into everyday life.
The industrial revolution saw mass migration into the main urban, city areas of an area. In order for workers to travel to work and also for factories and mills to deliver their goods transport was developed quickly. This development helped towns and cities grow, and it also helped sport surge in popularity. Teams now had the option, and availability to travel to different towns and play teams from all over the country. In return supporters were also allowed to travel and support their local team or factory team. This meant that more people could see sport and gain interest. This was helpful in encouraging people, which would increase participation levels. The ability to travel quickly and conveniently between towns and cities improved sporting contacts. As teams began to travel and play all over the country, people begin to find that that rules in certain areas were different. This caused much confusion for many of the participants, therefore the next stage in sport was to form untied rules and governing bodies. In 1888 the Football League was inaugurated with 12 founder clubs Accrington, Aston Villa, Blackburn Rovers, Bolton Wanderers, Burnley, Derby County, Everton, Nott’s County, Preston North End, Stoke F.C. (renamed Stoke City in 1928),West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers. This