Poster: "The History and Cultural Meaning of Auburn University’s “War Eagle” Battle Cry"

Description:

Auburn University’s “War Eagle” battle cry is one of the most famous traditions at the
school. However, its true origin is not clear and often comes from stories rather than proven
facts. Over time, many different versions of how “War Eagle” began have been shared between
Auburn fans. One popular story is that during a Civil War-era football game, an eagle flew over
the field which inspired the crowd. Another story is that a golden eagle was released during a
game in the early 1900s, when fans started to shout “War Eagle.” These stories have been passed
down through generations in school newspapers, media reports, and conversations between fans.
Because of this, the tradition has become an important part of community and identity at Auburn
University, and extends beyond sports and into everyday campus life.
This project argues that the “War Eagle” battle cry is an example of what historians call an
“invented tradition.” This idea, introduced by Eric Hobsbawn, explains how some traditions are
created and change over time instead of coming from one clear event. Invented traditions often
rely on the repetition of stories and shared beliefs rather than solid historical evidence. For “War
Eagle,” its unknown beginnings actually make it more meaningful, as people can connect with
the tradition in their own way. To better understand how this tradition developed, this project
looks at early sources like Auburn yearbooks and newspaper articles. These materials show how
the stories about “War Eagle” have changed over time. As Auburn University grew, these stories
were retold and changed to match the culture of the University. This shows how traditions evolve
as communities change. Students, alumni, and fans all play an important role in shaping and
keeping the tradition alive.
In the end, this project shows that the importance of “War Eagle” does not come from finding its
exact origin. Its meaning comes from the role it plays in bringing people together. This phrase
has lasted for generations because it represents school pride, unity, and shared experience.
Auburn students and fans use it to connect with one another, whether they are at a football game
or showing school spirit. “War Eagle” also helps us to understand how traditions work at
universities. Schools often create meaning through rituals, stories, and repeated actions. These
traditions help peope feel like they belong to something bigger than themselves. Even without a
clear beginning, “War Eagle” is still a powerful symbol of Auburn’s community and identity.

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