Shooting originated as a means of survival, as it was practised in order to hunt game for food. In the 19th century, however, as the industrial revolution made hunting for food less necessary for many people, shooting evolved into a sport. The sport was first popular in English-speaking countries, notably England and the United States, as well as Ireland and South Africa. The National Rifle Association (USA) was formed in 1871 and provided the impetus for the development of shooting as an organised form of sport in the United States.

(BOCOG)