THE HISTORY OF SUMO

Sumo has been a part of Japanese culture throughout its long and eventful history, whether as a religious ritual, a part of military training, or as a national sport. It has undergone many drastic changes, especially from the 15th century to the present. It's social status has also changed, going from entertainment for the gods, to entertainment for the nobles, to entertainment for the masses. The final step was to make it a professional sport in the early 19th century, when it began to develop into what is practiced recognise today.

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HEIAN PERIOD (794-1185)

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EDO PERIOD (1600-1700)

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EDO PERIOD (1700-1868)

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MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912 )

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