For general solidity of character, intellectual attainments, heartiness of manner and sterling worth, the Germans as a nation are noted.

Perhaps part of the good health the Germans are famed for, is due to their general practice of drinking beer. This wholesome beverage cheers but never inebriates at least in Germany where the Government keenly guards against adulteration. The drinking of beer is so universal that it has been the founder of the Kneipe. There are not saloons, nor are they club houses. They are orderly establishments for public entertainment, and their guests are sedate and regular habitues. Here beer drinking is indulged in to the heart’s content by its devotees.

In the eighteenth century there was a great gymnastic revival in Germany, and in 1810 a teacher named Jahn established gymnastic schools throughout the country. From them sprung the associations called Turn Vereine.[^a] They were suppressed for a time by the Government, but were largely reorganized in 1848. These societies have done much to make gymnastics popular. Swimming schools are a feature of German education. Here the art of propelling one’s self in water is most carefully taught. Comparatively few males reach manhood who have not learned to swim.

Bowling has become a national institution in Germany. Every little hamlet, if it does not possess its club, at least owns a champion. Every year a national bowling tournament is held in some large city and thither the champions and the clubs from everywhere flock. To win victory here, is indeed to challenge the world’s admiration. The Germans too, are great musicians. The greatest composers who ever lived were for the most part, Germans.

They enter into the pleasures of dancing with great vim and heartiness, and the waltz is in a measure of German invention.