Rules of the game

Rule Basics

-A tables dimensions are as followed- 2.74m in length, 76 cm high, and have a net of 15.25 cm that divides the table evenly in half.

-Games are to 11 with serves alternating every two points.

-A match ends after a player wins an agreed upon odd number of games.

-The ball weight must be 2.7 grams

-Paddles must be made up of 85% wood.

-An unlimited number of let serves are permitted and count as a redo.

For Complete rules reference
http://www.ittf.com/ittf_handbook/hb.asp?s_Chapter=&s_Description=&s_last_update=&s_number=2&Formhb2004_Page=1#hb2004

Brief History-

    The prestigious game of Ping Pong was invented in the late 1800's by Victorian party-goers. At the end of a night of revelry guests would use the dinner table along with an assortment of household items to make a makeshift tennis court. As rackets the players would use cigar box lids to show their skills.
    With the introduction of high performance rackets and rubbers the dynamic of this sport has changed dramatically. Even though the game was initially invented in Britain, the major competing countries are located in Asia. The story goes that a British officer based in Asia introduced the game and from there the rest is history.

Now-

    The ITTF (International Table Tennis Federation) is the controlling institution when it comes to modern day Ping Pong. They approve and regulate the legality of modern day Ping Pong Equipment. This ruling body initially formed in Europe and has spread to be the primary governing entity in the world, pertinent to Ping Pong.