How was rugby league originally played?

Question

How was rugby league originally played in 1895 etc???

Answer 1

The original game was rugby union which was played by everyone. Then the working class people such as miners etc. were getting too good at it, so the 'gentry' fixed the games so that they were played when the miners etc. had work. They then wanted compensation because obviously they couldn't go to work which they were refused so they broke off and formed their own sport. This turned professional long before Union.

Answer 2

It wasn't founded in 1895.

Rugby League has been played the same way since it was invented.

13 men, 5 tackles, uncontested scrums.

Answer 3

With 13 players that were professionals so the got paid for playing as opposed to rugby which only went pro a few years ago.  

Originally it was unlimited tackles so the team in possession kept the ball until they either scored or went into touch or knocked on or committed something illegal.

They changed to a 4 tackle rule in 1967 but it was successful. Then in 1972.  This is pretty much the format of the game played today.