Abstract

In the course of the 1870s and the 1880s the emphasis in Sedan ceremonies shifted from popular exercise for everyone, as for example sack races, to gymnastics and athletics. The disciplines became more specialized, seeking to build up endurance and power; and a differentiation according to age was introduced for boys and men. The Turner (gymnasts) and their organisations, supported by local school boards, musical societies, and veterans groups of the French War, gave new prestige to Sedan celebrations in the 1890s. Leaders of the sports movement joined in the Sedan celebrations, thus supporting these ceremonies nationwide. Stimulated by the influence of Coubertins ideas on modern Olympic Games, they even wanted to create a German National Olympic Meeting for the best athletes. Although plans for the German Olympics failed to materialize before 1900, local Sedan celebrations continued to spread. At Brunswick, where Sedan celebrations were especially popular, games like stickball, fistball, and football were added to the ceremonies after 1900. Thousands of spectators went to see these meetings and matches. Thus changes in Sedan celebrations influenced the development of popular exercises and their incorporation into modern sports in Germany to a certain degree. Verf.-Referat