When did people first start ice skating?

The history of ice skates is still a subject of controversy. It dates to the European medieval ages. It is said the first ice skates were tried in Finland in the 1400's. It was first used with steel and the bottom parts were also sharp. No one person can be credited to this sport except it was game played by both layman and Royals. It is said King James II of England once visited the Netherlands and saw the sport and got loyal to it and after his return the game was appreciated in England. Also there are lot of evidences from the 14th and 15th century where they show the paintings depicted with ice skates. Some historians still debate on the inception of ice skates saying it was played much before. According to a recent research some historian found in a lake in Switzerland animal bones dating back to 3000 B.C used as ice skates. But nevertheless it became more popular only after the 14th and 15th centuries. Hope this helps.