Student Article

The First Rugby Match Between Nations: Scotland vs. England, 1871

By: Dominic Sandbrook

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Originally Published in HistoryExtra

In 1871, Scotland and England met in the world’s first international rugby match, kicking off a historic rivalry that lives on in the Calcutta Cup.

The article "The First Rugby Match Between Nations: Scotland vs. England, 1871" from BBC's HistoryExtra explores the events of March 27, 1871, when the very first international rugby game was played in Edinburgh. It covers the background, gameplay, and how the match marked the beginning of one of the sport’s greatest rivalries.

Student Article Info

BBC's HistoryExtra is devoted to both British and world history and aimed at readers of all levels of knowledge and interest. Learn more about subscriptions here.

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Keywords

rugby Scotland England international match 19th Century

Student Article Info

BBC's HistoryExtra is devoted to both British and world history and aimed at readers of all levels of knowledge and interest. Learn more about subscriptions here.

Student Article Info

Grades:

Subject:

Topic:

Grades:

Subject:

Topic:

Keywords

rugby Scotland England international match 19th Century

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Grades: 6-8, Lexile Level: 800–1000L

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Grades: 9-12, Lexile Level: 1000–1200L

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