Abstract
This paper discusses the relationship between the first intercity soccer tournament of the state of Bahia held in 1921, and the campaign for the construction of the Geographical and Historical Institute of Bahia (IGHB). The research is based on an analysis of periodicals of that time and on the literature related to that topic. The narrative shows how the participation of the municipality of Ilhéus in the event offered an opportunity to assert its commitment to the ideals of modernization and civilization, which were valued by Bahia’s society at that time. It was also investigated how this participation contributed to the consolidation process of the sport in Ilhéus and its approximation to the sports scenario of the state capital.
Keywords
Sports; Soccer; IGHB; Ilhéus; Civility.