Staredown History

Anthropologists have uncovered evidence of a primitive form of Staredown practiced by prehistoric man.

While it was by no means the organized, highly-developed incarnation with which modern NASP fans are familiar, eye contact between one Neanderthal and another determined social hierarchy and provided an alternative to physical violence. According to Desmond Morris in his book The Naked Ape, "A direct stare is typical of the most out-and-out aggression. It is part of the fiercest facial expressions and accompanies all of the most belligerent gestures. This is why the children's game of 'stare you out' is so difficult to perform."

Indeed, this game has moved far from the playground in recent years, and thanks to legendary athletes such as Tony Patterson the game has evolved into a highly intricate test of physical and mental prowess.

It's fair to say the sport of staredown has advanced more in the last 5 years than in the 5 million years preceding it.

As documented in my book Staredown to Heaven, the sport clearly has a universal and timeless appeal. From the cavemen to the Mayans to the Greeks to the Puritans, every culture in human history has practiced some form of the ritual.

Staredown is a common thread that ties together diverse peoples and civilizations. Exploring the roots of this sport is my life's pursuit and a worthy one at that.