Fencing is a sport that has been shaped through the ages and by nations. Fencing was originally a way of settling disputes between nobles, and because duelling blades were not sharp enough to kill, it became the preferred method of settling disputes, because a noble family did not wish to lose one of their family members. Eventually, because of this sense of "immortality" instilled by the safety of duelling, people began duelling over the most mundane of subjects, just for the thrill of combat. It became so bad in some parts of France and Italy, that some cities banned the sport duelling, as it was called, because some people were getting out of control and started to duel to try to kill their opponent.

    Eventually it was decided that fencing should be revived, except the blades were to be dulled, and it should be for sport, rather than personal issues. Shortly after its resurrection, it was accepted into the very first Olympic games in 1896, and still remains an Olympic sport to this day. Demonstrated on the right is a poster for the fencing event at the 1900 Summer Olympics. Though rare, they're are still some small sects who practice classical duelling, often with sabres. One such sect is in Germany, Studentenverbindungen, though they do use classical fencing rules, they do have very strict regulations, and have no tolerance for disobedience. Groups like Studentenverbindungen still exist for tradition, as well as many people believe that fencing of this style strengthens your character, though they do wear protective goggles so that their eyes don't get slashed.

    Fencing also had roots in North America, though its influence is quite weak nowadays. Fencing in North America is still around today in many clubs throughout the United States and Canada, it is almost completely out of the school system, save for private schools. In the earlier twentieth century, fencing was common throughout the whole world, and was even available as a sport for both genders. Even today fencing remains a rather unisex sport, although in national and Olympic competitions the two genders are split up into two separate groups. Even though fencing has been on a decline of the past century, several hit movies with sword fighting have brought a lot of attention to the sport. Because of this foray into the spotlight, fencing may survive much longer than people may have expected.