-
Soccer evolves into rugby
Over the course of a few years, soccer fell out of popularity as rugby gained momentum. American football grew out of a combination of British rugby and soccer. -
Rules
As the game became more popular, players and fans knew it was time to set a few official rules. Walter Camp wrote a set of rules during the Massasoit Convention, and he later became known as the father of American football. -
The first pro team
The Latrobe Athletic Association became the first to host an all-pro team. They played a full season with only paid, professional players. -
An attempt at a professional league
A few professional baseball associations decided they would try to make a professional football league. They attempted the first pro league, named the National Football league, but it wouldn't take hold for several more years. -
Changing rules
The rules of the game evolved over time. Field goals changed from five points to four points, and eventually three points; touchdowns were increased from five points to six points. -
An official pro league
Because of the changing rules, changing salaries, and players from all walks of life, the professional teams found themselves in rebellion. They decided a professional league with consistent rules was necessary, so the American Football Conference was created, -
The NFL
The American Football Conference officially changed its name on June 24 in 1922. It became the National Football League. -
Earned more fans
Football's popularity continued to grow. On Thanksgiving Day in 1925 and over 36,000 fans gathered to watch a game between the Chicago Bears and the Chicago Cardinals. -
The American football league
After being denied for his financial demands, football player Harold Grange started his own league named the American Football League. The AFL didn't gain popularity until around 1960, and it later merged with the NFL. -
Rules changing again
The NFL had for a long followed college rules for American football. However, in order to modernize the game and create a better atmosphere for their own players, they changed the rules to fit their own style. -
Merging the leagues
Longtime rivals, the NFL and the AFL, made the decision to merge leagues. They now classify teams as the American Conference and the National Conference, but play by the same set of rules with a yearly playoff at the Super Bowl.