Unraveling the Mystery: Why is American Football Called ‘Football’

The world of sports is full of peculiarities, and one of the most intriguing is the American use of the term ‘football’ for a game primarily played with hands. Unlike soccer, known as football almost everywhere else in the world, American football involves minimal foot-to-ball contact. Let’s explore the historical and cultural reasons behind this intriguing misnomer.

The Roots of the Game

1. Historical Connections to Rugby and Soccer: The origin of American football can be traced back to the early versions of rugby and association football (soccer). These games were collectively known as ‘football’ in Britain. The American version evolved from these sports, retaining the name despite its divergence in gameplay.
2. Early Football in America: In the late 19th century, American colleges played a version of football that was more akin to rugby. Over time, the rules evolved to put more emphasis on using hands, but the name ‘football’ stuck.

The Evolution of the Game

1. Walter Camp and the Birth of American Football: Walter Camp, known as the “Father of American Football,” was instrumental in shaping the rules that distinguished American football from rugby. Despite these changes, the traditional name was retained.