Backstroke was the third stroke added after the freestyle stroke and the breaststroke to be included in the Olympic Program when it was recognized in 1908 in London, France.

     American Adolf Keifer in the Berlin Olympics in 1936 showed the world his low arm recovery, when he swam with wide, outstretched arm and he won the 100 meter gold medal. Since then, many backstrokers imitated his style. Women first competed in the 100 meter backstroke in 1924 in Paris. In 1936, the Berlin Final was more famous for one spectator than all other swimmers, and her name was Eleanor Holm. Eleanor won the women's 100 meter backstroke title. She turned down many offers from Hollywood producers, because she wanted to remain an amateur to therefore be eligible for the Berlin Games. She set world records in the 200 meter and 100 meter backstroke races, and was considered to retain he 100 meter title. A man named Igor Polinski, who was of the Soviet Union, was famous for his "submarine start". He used the tactic most successfully in the 200 meter race in Seoul in 1988, where he received the gold medal. Igor was one of the most successful and talented backstroke swimmers. Now, almost everyone that competes in the backstroke race starts with the submarine start.