From Colonials to Revolutionaries: A History of the George Washington University Mascot
The George Washington University (GWU), a private research university located in Washington, D.C., has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1821. Originally named Columbian College, the institution has evolved significantly over the centuries, including its identity and branding. A crucial part of this identity is its mascot, which has undergone changes reflecting the university's values and the broader social context. This article explores the history of the George Washington University mascot, from its early beginnings to the recent transition from the "Colonials" to the "Revolutionaries."
The Early Years and the "Colonials" Moniker
Founded as Columbian College in 1821, the institution aimed to educate citizens from across the young nation. Over time, it transformed into George Washington University in 1904, following an agreement with the George Washington Memorial Association. However, it wasn't until 1926 that the moniker "Colonials" gained prominence.
The use of "Colonials" can be traced back to 1926, although the word "colonial" was associated with the school in various contexts for several years prior. Before officially adopting the "Colonials" name, the university's athletic teams were referred to by various names. In October 1926, The Hatchet, the university's student newspaper, advocated for "Colonials" as the official moniker for the teams. This suggestion was supported by GW Historian Dr. Elmer Kayser, who proposed the name following the revival of sports at GW after World War I.
The Evolution of George: From Cartoon to Modern Revolutionary
The first mascot, named George, made his debut at a 1948 GW football game. Over the years, George has undergone several transformations. Initially, he had a cartoonish appearance, but in the 1960s and 1970s, his face was modeled to resemble George Washington. During the 1980s and 1990s, George often appeared at basketball games in a jersey and shorts.
According to Nicole Macchione-Early, the GW Spirit Program Director, George has become more colorful and his features have become bigger. However, certain aspects of the mascot have remained consistent: George never speaks, is always animated, shakes hands, gives hugs, poses for pictures, and salutes during the national anthem. He attends sports events, student gatherings, and even private events such as weddings and birthday parties.
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In addition to George, the Spirit Program introduced Big George in the 1990s, a 10-foot-tall mascot, and the Hippo in 2001, standing at eight feet.
The Retirement of the "Colonials" Moniker
In recent years, the "Colonials" moniker came under scrutiny due to its association with colonialism, which is seen as the overtaking of a country by citizens of another, often leading to the persecution and marginalization of the original residents. As a result, the university formed special committees to consider a possible name change.
In June, the university announced that it would be retiring its previous name, the Colonials. Last June, the university announced that it would be retiring its previous name, the Colonials. The name was criticized because colonialism is the overtaking of a country by citizens of another, often leading to the persecution and marginalization of the original residents.
The Dawn of the "Revolutionaries"
After a year-long process involving students, alumni, faculty, and staff, the university narrowed down 8,000 suggestions to a new name: the "Revolutionaries." The Board of Trustees approved the new moniker, marking a significant shift in the university's identity.
President Mark S. Wrighton stated, "This is an exciting day for the George Washington University Revolutionaries. I am very grateful for the active engagement of our community throughout the development of the new moniker. This process was truly driven by our students, faculty, staff and alumni, and the result is a moniker that broadly reflects our community-and our distinguished and distinguishable GW spirit."
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The new George is decked out in buff and blue. His jacket and pants are blue with buff trim and metallic buttons, and he sports a pale blue sash and tri-corner hat with the GW logo, which Macchione-Early says is a nod to the Colonial Army. While his clothes are similar in style to his previous outfit, she says the mascot is now made of a new felt material, and his foam head has a fuzzy material over it that gives it a “plush and soft look” and allows for easier cleaning. “We wanted to make him fan friendly but still competitive and fierce looking,” says Macchione-Early. The new look was the result of eight months of research and assembly.
The New Mascot: A Symbol of Boldness and Change
The "Revolutionaries" moniker is intended to represent the university's connection to the founding of the United States and its commitment to progress and change. As graduate student Desiree Winns noted, "It alludes to the original foundation of our country and it has a modern application as well." Professor Monica Ruiz added, "Revolutionaries are bold. The embody creativity and passion. Revolutionaries are change makers. They're not content with the status quo."
To unveil the new name, a breaking news-style video was hosted by George Washington alumnus Chuck Todd. The video showcased the campus and scenes from around Washington D.C., culminating in the reveal of "Revolutionaries" in fireworks. The video also featured reactions from students and members of the community, celebrating the legacy of George Washington and the new direction of the university.
George's New Look
With the change in moniker, George received a makeover. The new George sports a dapper three-piece buff-and-blue suit, a ruffled necktie, and a tri-corner hat. His jacket and pants are blue with buff trim and metallic buttons, and he wears a pale blue sash. The mascot is made of a new felt material, and his foam head has a fuzzy material, giving him a plush and soft look.
Macchione-Early emphasized that the goal was to make George fan-friendly while maintaining a competitive and fierce appearance. The new look was the result of eight months of research and assembly.
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