Cruelty in sport and entertainment

Medieval (c500-1500)

Blood sports, such as bear-baiting, bull-baiting and cockfighting, were socially accepted forms of entertainment.
Animal combat shows were known as animal trials and often attracted huge crowds.
Jousting tournaments and duelling were extreme sports often resulting in serious injuries or death.

Blood sports continued to enjoy popularity among all types of socio-economic classes.
Public executions and punishments often served as entertainment; the gibbet was an execution device featured publically.
Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre hosted shows that featured graphic violent scenes as part of their storylines.

Blood sports started to decline in popularity due to increasing social and legal pressure.
The Cruelty to Animals Act of 1835 prohibited animal fighting, leading to the closure of many venues.
The illegal sport of prizefighting, a precursor to modern boxing, sometimes resulted in fatalities.
Working class people participated in brutal sports like bare-knuckle boxing and rat-baiting, often in secret.

Modern day boxing and MMA have rigorous safety protocols, but can still result in serious injury or death.
Dog and cock fighting is illegal in much of the world, but still occurs underground.
Criticisms exist around the treatment of animals in the circus industry, leading to bans in some areas on the use of wild animals in circuses.
Controversies around the lack of safety protocols and traumatic impacts of American Football has led to changes in rules and equipment.
Further concerns raised about treatment and welfare of animals in horse and greyhound racing.