When it comes to the origins of rugby, the debate between Rugby Union and Rugby League can be a contentious one. Both sports have their own unique histories and rule sets, but which came first?

Rugby Union is widely considered to be the original form of rugby, with its roots dating back to the early 19th century in England. The game was first played at Rugby School in 1823, when a student named William Webb Ellis picked up the ball during a game of football and ran with it. This moment is often credited as the birth of rugby as we know it today.

On the other hand, Rugby League emerged as a breakaway sport from Rugby Union in the late 19th century. The split occurred in 1895 when Northern clubs in England sought to compensate their players for time missed from work due to playing rugby. This led to the formation of the Northern Rugby Football Union, which eventually evolved into Rugby League.

So, to answer the question of which came first, Rugby Union can be considered the original form of rugby. However, Rugby League quickly followed as a separate entity with its own set of rules and regulations.

For more in-depth information on the history of both Rugby Union and Rugby League, you can visit the World Rugby website at www.world.rugby or the Rugby League International Federation website at www.rlif.com.

Overall, both Rugby Union and Rugby League have rich histories and passionate followings around the world. Whether you prefer the traditional aspects of Rugby Union or the fast-paced action of Rugby League, there is something for every rugby fan to enjoy.

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