Why is Auburn War Eagle and Tigers?
Auburn University, located in Auburn, Alabama, is one of the most iconic and beloved institutions in the United States. One of the most distinctive aspects of Auburn’s identity is its use of the War Eagle and Tigers as its mascot and symbol. But why is this the case?
A Brief History of Auburn’s Mascot
To understand why Auburn is associated with the War Eagle and Tigers, we need to go back to the early days of the university. In 1856, the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Alabama was established, and it wasn’t until 1892 that the school was officially named Auburn University. During this time, the university’s athletic teams were referred to as the "A&M Tigers," a nod to the school’s focus on agriculture and mechanical arts.
The Origin of the War Eagle
The origin of the War Eagle mascot is shrouded in mystery, but one story dates back to the 1890s. According to legend, a bird named War Eagle was said to have flown over the Auburn campus during a crucial football game against the University of Georgia in 1892. The bird was said to have been flying in formation with the team’s flags, and the players believed it was a good omen. The term "War Eagle" was allegedly coined by a cheerleader who shouted "War Eagle!" during the game, and it has since become a beloved tradition.
The Significance of the Tigers
So why the Tigers? The answer lies in the school’s early history and the "Tiger" nickname was given to the team by the university’s students. The nickname is believed to have originated from the "Tigers" of the university’s early football teams, who were known for their fierce and aggressive play.
The Symbolism of the War Eagle and Tigers
So what does it mean to be a War Eagle and a Tiger? For Auburn fans, the War Eagle represents bravery, strength, and perseverance. The Tigers, on the other hand, represent fearlessness, agility, and courage.
Auburn’s Rivalries
Auburn’s rivalries with other universities, particularly the University of Alabama and the University of Georgia, have contributed to the popularity of the War Eagle and Tigers. The Iron Bowl, a rivalry game between Auburn and Alabama, is one of the most famous and intense rivalries in college football.
Table: Auburn’s Rivalries
| University | Sport | Rivalry Name |
|---|---|---|
| University of Alabama | Football | Iron Bowl |
| University of Georgia | Football | Deep South’s Oldest Rivalry |
| University of Alabama | Basketball | The Iron City Showdown |
The Impact of the War Eagle and Tigers
The War Eagle and Tigers have had a significant impact on Auburn’s identity and culture. The War Eagle has become a beloved symbol of the university, and the Tigers have become a powerful representation of the school’s athletic teams.
Bullets: The Impact of the War Eagle and Tigers
• School spirit: The War Eagle and Tigers have become synonymous with Auburn’s school spirit, inspiring students, alumni, and fans to cheer on the university’s athletic teams.
• Tradition: The War Eagle and Tigers have become an integral part of Auburn’s tradition, with the university’s football team flying the War Eagle flag during games and the Tigers mascot leading the team onto the field.
• Community: The War Eagle and Tigers have brought the Auburn community together, with fans from all over the country proudly donning the university’s colors and symbols.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the War Eagle and Tigers are an integral part of Auburn University’s identity and culture. From the early days of the university to the present day, the War Eagle and Tigers have become synonymous with bravery, strength, and perseverance. The rivalry with other universities, particularly the University of Alabama and the University of Georgia, has contributed to the popularity of the War Eagle and Tigers. As a beloved symbol of the university, the War Eagle and Tigers will continue to inspire students, alumni, and fans for generations to come.
