The origins of darts are quite vague. The most common version refers to British archers who, so as to train in the winter time, decided to try and fire arrows in dry logs, this resulting in some cracks which nowadays determine the various sections of the target. In fact, they decided to pitch on smaller arrows which would allow them not to use their bows so often and which could be fired using only their hands.

The target, which is better known as the dartboard, is made up of 21 sections, the « bullseye » being the one bringing back the most points.
There are many different versions of the game, the official ones being the 501 double out and the 301 double out. Some others, which seem a bit bizarre, like the Killer or the Street Fighter, are not officially acknowledged. They remain however very popular.

As time went by, this sport became more and more popular, especially in Anglo-Saxon countries. Rules had to be made so as to ensure a certain form of safety. The players indeed payed darts mostly in pubs, which were highly patronized...
Nowadays, the arrows used to play darts must meet some standards relative to their size, width, and volume.
Amongst all champions, the most famous one is surely Phil Taylor, a.k.a The Power who won the World Championships 14 times. Let's not forget women, who are also very good players: the Golden Girl, Trina Gulliver, won the World Championships 7 times.