Much has been written about the history of darts over the years, but finding reliable information about the history of darts is an entirely different story. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay One fact that no one can dispute when it comes to the history of darts is that the game of darts originated in England. Darts has been played in pubs and taverns across the UK for the last 100+ years. History of Darts During the Middle Ages Much is speculated, but if the rumors are true, the game of darts originated during the reign of King Henry VIII of England. It is believed that he told his archers to practice their archery skills all year round so that they would be sharp and ready for battle at any time. While practicing outdoors, some archers, instead of shooting, began shooting arrows for fun. Maybe the thought was, "anyone can shoot accurately, let's see who can throw accurately." It goes without saying that everyone knows about England's unfavorable climate, and it wasn't long before this outdoor pastime or game was brought indoors to the comfort of the local pub. To better handle the arrows and make the game easier to play indoors, the arrows have been shortened. The bottom of an overturned wine or beer barrel was used as a “target”. An interesting fact about the word "target". The bottom of a wine/beer barrel was called a “butt,” which originated via archery from the French word “butte,” meaning “target.” When these barrels became scarce, some innovative darters decided to use a crosscut of a log (slice of tree trunk) as a target. The age rings of the tree served as markers or areas to throw. Later the wood began to crack, which further divided the target into several parts that evolved into today's target. What probably began as a means of entertainment quickly became a game of skill, and it wasn't long before the soldiers began to perform. their skills in drinking establishments. Many began to make their own shortened arrows, which they took with them to the pub, to challenge friends and to demonstrate the great skill they had developed. News traveled fast, and it wasn't long before they reached the upper class. , who also took an interest and wanted to show off his dart throwing skills. Even King Henry VIII was impressed by this new game. Reports state that Henry VIII enjoyed the game so much in 1530 that Anne Boleyn, his future wife, gave him a set of elaborately decorated darts to gain his favor. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a custom essay The game did not remain only in England. It wasn't long before people from other countries started enjoying the game too. Reports suggest that the Pilgrims who left England in 1620 aboard the Mayflower, played darts for fun and entertainment during their journey across the sea to America..