There is much debate as to when and where the first game of golf was played. Most scholars believe the game originated in 15th century Scotland. Others believe a form of the game took place as early as the 13th century in the Netherlands. The game has seen many changes and taken many paths in it's evolution towards the game we know and love today.

The Traditional Rules of Golf (TRGA) are based upon the historical evolution of golf's rules, dating back to as early as the late 1700's. The brain trust of the TRGA have studied the history of the games rules, carefully selected a set of rules from golf's past at various stages of development, and implemented these rules, inspiring the following intentions:

1. Golf shall be played without delay or haste.

2. The rules of golf shall be as fair as possible.

3. Golf's rules shall be self governing.

5. The rules of golf shall be simple and easily understood.

6. The rules of golf shall encourage good sportsmanship.