So You Want to Know How the Philadelphia Eagles Got Their Name? Buckle Up, It's a Wild Ride (Hold the Horse Meat... for Now)
The Philadelphia Eagles. A team known for their passionate fanbase, their midnight green jerseys, and... well, sometimes questionable calls (we're looking at you, Donovan McNabb on 4th and 26). But how did these birds of prey get their name? Buckle up, because it's a story that involves a Great Depression, a New Deal eagle, and a whole lotta "winging it."
How Did The Philadelphia Eagles Get Their Name |
From Yellowjackets to... Eagles? Not Exactly Soaring High at First
Back in 1933, the City of Brotherly Love wasn't exactly buzzing with football fever. The Philadelphia Yellowjackets, well, weren't exactly striking fear into the hearts of their opponents (unless you were deathly afraid of wasps). Enter Bert Bell and Lud Wray, two guys who decided to take a gamble on this struggling franchise. With a measly $2,500 (the price of a decent used car these days), they bought the Yellowjackets out of bankruptcy.
Side Note: Apparently, the money actually came from Bert Bell's wife, Frances Upton. You go, girl!
Tip: Reflect on what you just read.
Now, the question remained: what to call this new team? Here's where things get interesting.
A Sign From Above (or Maybe Just a Billboard?)
According to legend, Bert Bell was walking down the street, probably contemplating the merits of a good cheesesteak, when he saw a billboard. Not just any billboard, mind you, but one featuring a majestic eagle – the symbol of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's National Recovery Act (NRA). Bam! Inspiration struck. The Philadelphia Eagles were born, soaring into existence with a name that embodied strength, resilience, and maybe a touch of patriotism.
QuickTip: Skim the intro, then dive deeper.
So, Was it the NRA Eagle or Just a Convenient Story?
Here's the thing: there's some debate about this whole billboard story. Some folks say it's true, others say it's a myth. Truth is, maybe it doesn't matter. The point is, the Philadelphia Eagles got a cool name, and hey, who doesn't love a good underdog story (looking at you again, Donovan McNabb... kinda)?
Frequently Asked Questions (Because Let's Face It, You Have Them)
How to channel your inner Bert Bell and get a brilliant idea? Easy! Take a walk, get some fresh air, and maybe avoid staring at screens for a while. Inspiration can strike anywhere – even from a cheesesteak coma (don't recommend that one, though).
QuickTip: Skim the first line of each paragraph.
How to convince your significant other to let you name your child Donovan McNabb Jr.? This one's a tough one. Maybe focus on highlighting McNabb's strong arm and leadership skills? Or, you know, pick a different name.
How to avoid a Donovan McNabb on 4th and 26 situation in your own life? Planning and preparation are key! Don't wait until the last minute to make a big decision.
QuickTip: Focus on one paragraph at a time.
How to tell the difference between a bald eagle and the NRA eagle? Don't worry, you probably won't be tested on this one. But hey, learning a new fact a day keeps the doctor away (or at least makes you sound smarter at parties).
How to celebrate a Philadelphia Eagles win (or cope with a loss)? This one's simple: cheesesteaks, Tastykakes, and passionate cheering (or booing, depending on the situation). Just remember to be a good sport, win or lose (though winning is definitely more fun).