The History of the Redskins
The Washington Redskins, a professional American football team, have been a fixture in the National Football League (NFL) for almost a century. Founded in 1932, the team has enjoyed a storied history, which includes numerous championships, legendary players, and a devoted fan base. Despite the controversies surrounding the team’s name and logo, the Redskins remain one of the most recognizable and iconic franchises in the NFL.
The Origins of the Redskins
The origins of the Redskins can be traced back to 1932, when George Preston Marshall, a successful advertising executive, purchased an NFL franchise for the city of Boston. At the time, the team was known as the Boston Braves, after the city’s Major League Baseball team. However, Marshall soon changed the name to the Boston Redskins, in honor of the team’s Native American coach, Lone Star Dietz.
Early Years and Name Changes
The early years of the Redskins were marked by inconsistency and failure. The team struggled to win games, and attendance was poor. However, Marshall remained determined to build a winning team, and he made several key moves to improve the team’s fortunes. In 1937, Marshall moved the Redskins to Washington, D.C., and changed the team’s name to the Washington Redskins. The move proved to be a success, as the team became more popular and successful in its new home.
The Washington Redskins Era Begins
The 1940s and 1950s were the golden era of the Washington Redskins. The team won two NFL championships during this period, in 1942 and 1952, and featured some of the greatest players in NFL history, including quarterback Sammy Baugh and defensive end Gene Brito. The team’s success on the field helped to cement its place as one of the top franchises in the NFL.
The Founding Date Question
Despite the team’s long and storied history, the exact founding date of the Washington Redskins has been a matter of debate and controversy. Some sources claim that the team was founded in 1932, while others argue that it should be traced back to the Boston Braves’ creation in 1930. The question of the team’s founding date has been a source of confusion and disagreement among fans and historians alike.
Researching the Founding Date
To determine the true founding date of the Washington Redskins, researchers have scoured historical records, newspapers, and other sources. While there is no definitive answer, most historians agree that the team was officially founded in 1932, when Marshall purchased the Boston Braves franchise and moved it to Washington, D.C. This date is recognized by the NFL and the Redskins organization as the team’s official founding.
1932: A Significant Year for the Redskins
The year 1932 was significant for the Redskins in more ways than one. Not only was it the year that the team was founded, but it was also the year that the NFL introduced the first ever playoff game. The Redskins played in that game, and went on to win the NFL championship, cementing their place in NFL history.
Celebrating 80 Years of the Redskins
In 2012, the Washington Redskins celebrated their 80th anniversary as an NFL franchise. The team marked the occasion with a series of events and activities, including a special video tribute, commemorative merchandise, and a halftime ceremony during a home game. The anniversary was a reminder of the team’s legacy and importance in the NFL.
The Controversy Surrounding the Name
In recent years, the Washington Redskins have faced growing criticism and controversy over their team name and logo. Some argue that the name and logo are offensive and disrespectful to Native Americans, while others defend them as part of the team’s history and tradition. The controversy has sparked a debate about the role of sports teams in promoting cultural sensitivity and respect.
Conclusion: A Legacy Continues
Despite the controversies and challenges that the Washington Redskins have faced over the years, their legacy and importance in the NFL remain strong. The team has a rich history, filled with memorable moments and legendary players, and continues to inspire and excite fans across the country. Whether they are known as the Boston Braves, the Boston Redskins, or the Washington Redskins, this team remains an integral part of the NFL’s past, present, and future.
