Final answer:
The growth of physical education in the 1840s and 1850s is intertwined with the expansion of public education and organized sports.
Step-by-step explanation:
The growth of physical education in the 1840s and 1850s can be largely attributed to the development and influence of various social reform movements and educational organizations during that time. Although not explicitly mentioned in the provided information, the expansion of public education and the rise of organized sports during the late nineteenth century contributed to the increased prominence of physical education. One significant association founded before this period was the American Medical Association in 1847, which, despite its limited power initially, could have been influential in promoting the health benefits of physical activity. However, the given information does not specify an association directly linked to the founding of physical education. During the late 1800s and early 1900s, as public schools became more prevalent and organized sports such as football and basketball became more standardized and widespread, the importance of physical education in schools likely increased as a means to prepare students for participation in these sports and to ensure their overall health and fitness.