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Location: Egypt
Archaeologists found objects resembling pins and balls in an Egyptian child’s tomb—suggesting a primitive bowling-like game. -
Location: Roman empire
Roman soldiers played a game rolling stones to knock down targets—seen as a precursor to bocce and modern bowling. -
Location: Germany
Churchgoers rolled stones at wooden “kegels” (pins) to symbolize knocking down sin; this evolved into Kegelspiel. -
Location: England
Variations of outdoor bowling became widespread; banned at times by kings who wanted citizens to practice archery instead. -
Location: Netherlands to North America
Dutch settlers brought a nine-pin version to New Amsterdam (now New York City). -
Location: Connecticut, USA
Gambling concerns led to bans; players added a tenth pin to skirt the law, creating ten-pin bowling. -
Location: New York City, USA
Established standardized rules and equipment for ten-pin bowling. -
Location: St. Louis, USA
Gave women formal recognition and structure in the sport. -
Location: USA
Automatic pinsetters introduced; television popularized the sport (notably “Championship Bowling”). -
Location: Global
PBA (Professional Bowlers Association) tours gained fame; bowling alleys became widespread social hubs. -
Location: Worldwide
Synthetic lanes, computer scoring, and recreational “cosmic bowling” introduced. -
Location: USA
Formed United States Bowling Congress (USBC) as the sport’s main governing body. -
Location: Global
World Bowling and International Bowling Federation promote global tournaments; digital leagues and youth programs expand participation.