Today in History–August 11–the Library of Congress features swimmer Duke Kahanamoku, also known as the “father of international surfing“, who broke the world record in the 100-yard freestyle swim by 4.6 seconds in Honolulu Harbor on this day in 1911. Kahanamoku went on to win numerous gold and silver medals in several Olympic Games and helped to repopularize surfing as a sport. Find out more by visiting the Today in History section, the click the links below to access more primary sources.
Even Royalty Surfs in Hawaii from America’s Library
Duke Kahanamoku historical newspaper coverage
Historical books about swimming 1878-1929
Sports Byline USA broadcast with [swimmer] Natalie Coughlin 12-15-2008
Historical newspaper coverage related to the sport of swimming
Pairing Picture Books and Primary Sources: America’s Champion Swimmer Gertrude Ederle AASL Knowledge Quest
Surf & surfing primary source set
Historical newspaper coverage related to the sport of surfing through 1922
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