http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_American_Soccer_League_(1968%E2%80%931984)
maybe, maybe not, soccer got really big before without sticking
One thing often overlooked about MLS is its incredible franchise stability - in its 17-season existence only two franchises have folded (Miami Fusion, Tampa Bay Mutiny) and one has moved (first edition of San Jose Earthquakes, formerly San Jose Clash, who moved to Houston and became the Dynamo). Only the American Football League (1960-69, no franchises folded - although the NY Titans came close; two moved) is in that class among start-up leagues that I can think of.
The NASL had franchises popping up and folding almost annually (Washington, for one, went through four franchises - the Whips, Diplomats I, Diplomats II [ex-Detroit Express] and Team America).