American football

American football grew out of rugby and association football on the college fields of the north-eastern United States in the 1870s, and became the country's most watched sport.

How it is played

Two teams advance an oval ball down a 100-yard field by running or passing, needing ten yards in four downs to keep possession; a touchdown is worth six points and a field goal three. Seven-on-seven is the non-contact practice form, all passing, played on a short field.

Heritage note

Part of the living heritage of United States.

Origins

Usually placed in the era of Modern Heritage (1800 to today), although its exact origins are uncertain, within the cultural world of The Americas: North America.