It was invented in 1895 by a YMCA teacher, William G Morgan, in Massachusetts, USA.
With the same intention as Basketball invented there a llittle earlier, he aspired a spectacular, physically demanding, non-violent team sport for the indoor sport season. He was also inspired by handball, baseball and tennis.
Initially it was called Mintonette, but renamed to Volleyball in 1896.
It has spawned many varieties, like Beach Volleyball from California, USA and Footvolley from Brazil, especially for outdoor playing. Kidsvolley and Volley 2000, are adapted to young players, allowing a ground bounce, very popular in Northern Europe. In the Netherlands "sitting volleyball" was created for disabled persons.
The modern Volleyball rules have evolved around the world, especially in 1900-1930, with the number of players, spiking and scoring.
Faustball has many similarities with volleyball, and was known in Europe already in the 16th century.
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William G. Morgan invented volleyball in order to create a game with less physical contact for businessmen.