Truman the Tiger
Truman the Tiger | |
---|---|
University | University of Missouri |
Conference | SEC |
Description | Anthropomorphic Bengal tiger |
Origin of name | Missourian Harry S. Truman |
First seen | 1986 |
Truman the Tiger is the official mascot of the athletic teams of the
Truman is best known to Mizzou fans for his "tail-spin" during the "
History
In 1864, while in the midst of the American Civil War, the board of curators suspended operations of the university. It was during this time that the residents of Columbia formed a "home guard" unit that became notoriously known as the "Fighting Tigers of Columbia". This name was given because of the group's steadfast readiness to fight against Confederate bushwhackers, hoping to plunder the city and university, under the command of "Bloody Bill" Anderson. Later, in 1890, an alumnus suggested the university's newly formed football team be called the "Tigers" out of respect for those who fought to defend Columbia.
The Tiger
![]() | This section possibly contains original research. (November 2015) |
"The Tiger" was the official mascot of the University of Missouri before Truman took his place in 1986. Truman's predecessor was a "plain grey" tiger with black stripes that was simply known as "The Tiger". "The Tiger" was officially replaced by "Truman The Tiger" before the 1986 football season.