Why are Auburn Tigers Called War Eagles?
The Auburn Tigers, a college football team from Auburn University, are often referred to as the War Eagles. But why? The origins of this nickname are fascinating and date back to World War I. In this article, we’ll explore the history behind the Auburn Tigers’ nickname and its connection to the War Eagles.
The Early Days
The Auburn Tigers, founded in 1892, were originally known as the Auburn Orators. Over the years, the team went through several name changes, including the Auburn Dragoons, the Auburn Plainsmen, and the Auburn Engineers. However, none of these names seemed to stick.
World War I and the Early Years of the War Eagle
In the early 20th century, World War I was raging across Europe. Auburn University was heavily involved in the war effort, with many of its students and alumni serving in the military. During this time, the team began to adopt the War Eagle as a symbol of their support for the troops.
The First Use of the War Eagle
The first recorded use of the War Eagle was on October 26, 1913, when the Auburn Tigers played the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. In the game, Auburn University’s band played a tune called "The War Eagle" to rally the troops and boost morale. From that day on, the War Eagle became an official symbol of the Auburn Tigers.
The War Eagle and the Auburn University Symbolism
The War Eagle is more than just a nickname for the Auburn Tigers. It’s a symbol of the university’s history, tradition, and spirit. The eagle is also a powerful symbol of courage, strength, and perseverance, which are all core values of the Auburn Tigers.
The Auburn Creed
In 1946, Auburn University adopted a creed that reflected the team’s values and spirit. The creed reads:
"I believe that this is a University of the highest type, where are learned the ways of building a better world and all men are treated alike, and I believe that no student shall ever leave here feeling that he did not receive a full measure of friendship and kindness."
The War Eagle is often referred to as a reminder of the Auburn Creed, which emphasizes the importance of kindness, friendship, and compassion.
The Legacy of the War Eagle
The War Eagle has been a beloved symbol of the Auburn Tigers for over 100 years. The nickname has been used in countless songs, chants, and cheers, and is a source of pride for fans and alumni alike.
Fun Facts and Trivia
Here are some interesting facts and trivia about the War Eagle:
- The War Eagle has a life of its own: The War Eagle is not just a symbol of the Auburn Tigers, but it has its own life. The eagle is said to have been born in the woods near Auburn University, and is believed to possess magical powers.
- The War Eagle has many nicknames: The War Eagle is often referred to as "Aubie," "The Warbird," and "The King of the Plains."
- The War Eagle is a symbol of good luck: The War Eagle is believed to bring good luck to the Auburn Tigers. Whenever the team is on the verge of victory, the War Eagle is summoned to inspire the team.
- The War Eagle has its own fan base: The War Eagle has its own fan base, known as the "War Eagle Nation." The group is dedicated to promoting the War Eagle and its importance to the Auburn Tigers.
Conclusion
The Auburn Tigers’ nickname, War Eagles, is a source of pride and tradition for the team and its fans. The nickname dates back to World War I, when the team adopted the symbol to support the troops. Today, the War Eagle is a symbol of the Auburn Tigers’ history, values, and spirit. Whether you’re an Auburn fan or just interested in the team’s fascinating history, the War Eagle is a symbol that will continue to inspire and energize for generations to come.
Table:
Year | Event | Description |
---|---|---|
1892 | Founding of Auburn Tigers | The Auburn Tigers, founded in 1892, were originally known as the Auburn Orators. |
1913 | First Use of the War Eagle | The Auburn Tigers’ band played "The War Eagle" tune for the first time in 1913. |
1946 | Adoption of the Auburn Creed | The Auburn Creed emphasized the importance of kindness, friendship, and compassion. |
1960s | Rise of War Eagle Nation | The War Eagle Nation fan base formed to promote the War Eagle and its importance to the Auburn Tigers. |
Bullets:
- The War Eagle is more than just a nickname, it’s a symbol of the Auburn Tigers’ history, tradition, and spirit.
- The War Eagle has been a beloved symbol of the Auburn Tigers for over 100 years.
- The War Eagle has its own life and magical powers, according to Auburn University legend.
- The War Eagle is a source of good luck for the Auburn Tigers.
- The War Eagle has its own fan base, known as the War Eagle Nation.
- The War Eagle is a reminder of the Auburn Creed, which emphasizes the importance of kindness, friendship, and compassion.