The World Cup begins on June 11, with the US as a co-host. But what do you know of its history? Why is it the most important sports event in the world? Attend this lecture by UR History Professor Juan Pablo Ardila Falla to gain a greater appreciation of why soccer is more than a sport, but a way of life in so many countries, especially Latin America. Through the history of the World Cups of 1950, 1970, 1978, and 1986, we'll delve into questions regarding soccer, politics, national identity, and race in Latin America. The lecture offers an overview of why soccer is so central to Latin American societies.