The story of how the Washington Commanders, formerly known as the Redskins, received their name is a complex tapestry woven from early 20th-century ambition, a desire to honor a specific individual, and the evolving cultural landscape of professional sports. Long before the controversy and eventual rebranding, the origin was rooted in a straightforward, albeit misguided, attempt to capture the spirit of a legendary coach. The team was founded in Boston in 1932 by George Preston Marshall, and the naming process was directly influenced by the success and persona of another major league team.
The Birth of a Name in Boston
When George Preston Marshall launched his franchise in 1932, he was breaking new ground as the first NFL team in the nation's capital. However, the team played its inaugural season in nearby Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox. During this period, the team was referred to as the "Boston Braves," a reference to the baseball team sharing the venue. Marshall, ambitious and keen on establishing a unique identity, sought a name that would command respect and attention, leading him to look beyond the diamond.
Inspiration from the Gridiron
The pivotal figure in the naming was not a politician or a tribal leader, but a football coach. Marshall was an avid admirer of Glenn "Pop" Warner, the legendary coach at the Carlisle Indian Industrial School. Warner's team featured a star halfback named Jim Thorpe, who was Native American. Marshall, captivated by the success and mystique of Warner's "Indians" team, decided that a name evoking strength, courage, and a connection to the Indigenous peoples of America was the perfect fit for his new franchise. Thus, the name "Redskins" was born, intended as a tribute to the heritage and prowess associated with Native American warriors.
Founded in 1932 by George Preston Marshall.
Initially played as the "Boston Braves" in 1932.
Name was inspired by Pop Warner's Carlisle Indians team.
Specifically intended to honor Native American heritage and warriors.
First used officially in 1933.
Remained the team's identity for over 80 years.
Evolution and Intention
Upon moving to Washington, D.C., in 1937, the name stuck. The choice was part of a broader trend in sports where Native American imagery and names were used to evoke a perceived noble savagery or fighting spirit. For Marshall, the term "Redskins" was not viewed as derogatory but rather as a badge of honor, signifying toughness and resilience. The team's logo, featuring a Native American profile, further reinforced this intended image of proud strength and tradition, becoming one of the most recognizable symbols in all of sports.
Shifting Perceptions and Modern Context
For decades, the name was accepted by many, but starting in the late 20th century, it became the subject of intense debate. Critics argued that the term was a racial slur, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and causing offense to Native American communities. The debate was fueled by growing awareness of cultural sensitivity and the impact of language. What was once seen as a respectful homage was increasingly viewed as a painful symbol of colonialism and discrimination. This shift in public consciousness created mounting pressure for change.
The Path to Change
The culmination of this pressure came in 2020, following widespread social justice movements and explicit requests from Native American tribes and leaders. The team's owners, facing sponsorships being pulled and calls for change from across the league and government, finally announced the retirement of the "Redskins" name. The organization conducted a thorough review process, acknowledging that the name no longer aligned with its values of respect and inclusivity. The subsequent search for a new identity led to the temporary "Washington Football Team" and eventually the adoption of the "Commanders," a name intended to evoke leadership and honor without cultural appropriation.
