| This thesis examined the origin and evolution of the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF) and, further, traced the historical relationship that evolved between the IAAF and the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Also, this study investigated the early history of women's participation in track and field at the international and Olympic Games level, a controversial issue over which both the IAAF and the IOC sought control.;It was concluded that the IAAF arose in the early twentieth century as a result of four pivotal factor.;On the subject of the inclusion of women's track and field in the Olympic Games, this thesis concludes that the struggle for control over women's participation in track and field was a battle between the FSFI's segregated system of sport and the IOC's male-dominated Olympic Games. The FSFI also challenged the authority and ability of the IAAF to control women's track and field throughout the world. (Abstract shortened by UMI.). |
