Missouri Tigers Mascot and Nickname Origins

The University of Missouri's "Tigers" nickname boasts a history as rich and spirited as its mascot's orange and black stripes. The connection stretches back to the turbulent years of the Civil War, where the seeds of Mizzou's fierce pride were sown.

Fearing raids by Confederate guerilla bands, the citizens of Columbia, Missouri, formed a local militia unit nicknamed the "Missouri Tigers" to defend their town. These brave volunteers embodied courage and resilience, qualities that resonated with the university's burgeoning athletic program. In 1890, just as the first Mizzou football team was taking shape, the athletic committee adopted "Tigers" as their official nickname, a tribute to the community's wartime protectors.

For decades, the Tigers remained nameless. Mizzou even sported two separate tiger mascots, a male and female, at one point. In 1981, these mascots were combined into a single, more unified tiger. However, it wasn't until 1984 that the beloved mascot truly came alive. A student-led contest, aiming to raise funds for a mascot uniform carrying case, offered students the chance to name the tiger for a dollar. The winning entry, a stroke of pure Missouri pride, was "Truman," honoring the state's 33rd president, Harry S. Truman.

Truman the Tiger, with his friendly yet spirited demeanor, quickly became a campus icon. He embodies the fighting spirit of the Missouri Tigers athletes and serves as a constant reminder of the community's unwavering spirit. The roar of the Tigers isn't just a stadium chant; it's a testament to the legacy of those who defended Columbia and the unwavering pride of the Mizzou community.