Pugilistica: The History of British Boxing, Volume 1 (of 3) / Containing Lives of the Most Celebrated Pugilists; Full Reports of Their Battles from Contemporary Newspapers, With Authentic Portraits, Personal Anecdotes, and Sketches of the Principal Patrons of the Prize Ring, Forming a Complete History of the Ring from Fig and Broughton, 1719-40, to the Last Championship Battle Between King and Heenan, in December 1863

Name: Pugilistica: The History of British Boxing, Volume 1 (of 3) / Containing Lives of the Most Celebrated Pugilists; Full Reports of Their Battles from Contemporary Newspapers, With Authentic Portraits, Personal Anecdotes, and Sketches of the Principal Patrons of the Prize Ring, Forming a Complete History of the Ring from Fig and Broughton, 1719-40, to the Last Championship Battle Between King and Heenan, in December 1863
Author: Henry Downes Miles

By Henry Downes Miles

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About This Book

A periodized chronicle of British prizefighting that compiles chronological biographies of celebrated pugilists, contemporary newspaper reports of their battles, authenticated portraits, anecdotes, and sketches of patrons. It opens with an introduction linking classical pugilism to later practice, then groups fighters into defined periods, each followed by appendices on minor and light-weight practitioners. The author combines first-hand reporting and archival accounts to trace the ring’s rise, customs, notable matches, and eventual decline, while documenting social context, patronage, and technical developments in the art of boxing.

About the Author

Henry Downes Miles

Henry Downes Miles was a notable figure in the history of British boxing, best known for his comprehensive work "Pugilistica," a three-volume series that chronicles the lives and careers of celebrated pugilists from the early 18th century to the mid-19th century. Through meticulous research and contemporary newspaper reports, Miles provides an in-depth look at the sport's evolution, including detailed accounts of significant battles and the personalities involved. His writings not only document the sport's history but also reflect the cultural significance of boxing in British society during that era. Miles' contributions have made him a key figure in the literary heritage of sports history.