Creation of the department of physical education of the São Paulo state (1925-1932)

Abstract

This paper focuses on the creation of the Departamento de Educação Física do Estado de São Paulo [Department of Physical Education of São Paulo State] (DEF-SP). Its objectives are: a) to analyze the debates that led to the creation of the DEF-SP; b) to identify the positions assumed by the subjects who contributed to its creation; c) to verify the initiatives that were implemented in its first year of activity. The creation of the DEF-SP was linked to the debates of the sports field of São Paulo in intersection with disputes and tensions about the national identity. It was promoted by sports figures, such as sports journalist, athletes and also by doctors. The justification for its creation presented a eugenic content, and the sport was interpreted as means to develop physical and moral vigor of the population.