As a sport and as a cultural phenomenon, strongman has a long and fascinating history spanning several centuries. Here are a few highlights that highlight the evolution of strongman from its inception to the present:
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19th century: The origins of modern strongman can be traced back to the 19th century, when circus performers and traveling showmen would display their feats of strength to captivate audiences. These performances often included lifting heavy objects, bending steel bars, and tearing phone books in half.
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Early 20th century: Strongman became more organized as a sport in the early 20th century, with competitions and events being held in various locations around the world. One of the earliest and most famous strongman competitors was Louis Cyr, a Canadian who was known for his incredible feats of strength, including lifting a platform with 18 men on it.
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Mid-20th century: The popularity of strongman waned somewhat in the mid-20th century, as other sports and forms of entertainment gained more attention. However, strongman events continued to be held around the world, and new competitors emerged with their own unique styles and strengths.
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Late 20th century: The late 20th century saw a resurgence in the popularity of strongman, thanks in part to the rise of televised competitions and the growth of the fitness industry. The World's Strongest Man competition was established in 1977, and quickly became the most prestigious and well-known event in the sport.
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21st century: Strongman has continued to grow in popularity in the 21st century, with more competitions and events being held than ever before. The sport has also become more diverse, with competitors from a wide range of countries and backgrounds participating at the highest levels.
This worldwide phenomenon has led strongman competitions and events to become a cultural phenomenon as well, with millions of fans tuning in to watch competitions around the world. Strongman has established itself as a thrilling and awe-inspiring sport that showcases the incredible strength and ability of its competitors.