The Washington Redskins: A Comprehensive History and Legacy

The name “Washington Redskins” once resonated across the National Football League (NFL). For decades, it evoked images of fierce competition, legendary players, and a storied franchise deeply embedded in American sports culture. However, it also became a symbol of controversy, sparking intense debate about cultural sensitivity and the use of Native American imagery. Understanding the Washington Redskins requires navigating a complex history, acknowledging its impact on the sport, and recognizing the reasons behind its eventual name change.

This article delves into the complete history of the Washington Redskins, examining its origins, its successes, the controversies it faced, and the ultimate decision to rebrand. We will explore the team’s on-field achievements, the iconic figures who shaped its identity, and the cultural context that led to its eventual transformation. Whether you are a long-time fan, a student of sports history, or simply curious about this significant chapter in the NFL, this guide provides a comprehensive and insightful look at the Washington Redskins.

The Early Years and Formation

The franchise was founded in 1932 in Boston as the Boston Braves, named after the city’s Major League Baseball team. Its owner, George Preston Marshall, moved the team to Washington, D.C., in 1937. With the move came a new name: the Washington Redskins. Marshall chose the name seemingly to honor then-head coach William “Lone Star” Dietz, who claimed Native American heritage. The team’s original logo featured a Native American man, solidifying this imagery. The early years were marked by growing popularity and a developing rivalry with the New York Giants.

Relocation to Washington D.C.

George Preston Marshall’s decision to relocate the team to the nation’s capital proved pivotal. Washington D.C. provided a larger market and a passionate fanbase, which quickly embraced the Redskins. This move established the team as a prominent fixture in the NFL and set the stage for future success.

Early Successes and Championships

The Redskins quickly found success in Washington, winning NFL championships in 1937 and 1942. These early victories cemented the team’s status as a major contender and fostered a strong sense of pride among its fans. Sammy Baugh, a legendary quarterback, led the team during this era, becoming one of the NFL’s first true superstars. The team’s early dominance established a legacy of excellence that would be both a blessing and a burden in the years to come.

The George Preston Marshall Era: Success and Segregation

George Preston Marshall’s influence on the Redskins was undeniable. While he was a shrewd businessman and a driving force behind the team’s early success, he was also a staunch segregationist. The Redskins were the last NFL team to integrate, a policy Marshall stubbornly defended until pressured by the federal government in 1962. This period is a stark reminder of the social injustices prevalent during that time and casts a long shadow over the team’s legacy. Marshall’s resistance to integration ultimately tarnished his reputation and remains a controversial aspect of the team’s history.

Resistance to Integration

Marshall’s refusal to integrate the Redskins was a blatant act of discrimination that stood in stark contrast to the evolving social norms of the time. His stance drew widespread criticism and ultimately led to intervention from the Kennedy administration, which threatened to revoke the team’s lease at D.C. Stadium if they did not integrate. This pressure finally forced Marshall to relent, but the damage to the team’s reputation had already been done.

Forced Integration and Its Impact

In 1962, the Redskins reluctantly integrated, drafting Ernie Davis, who was then traded to the Cleveland Browns. The following year, they signed Bobby Mitchell, who became the team’s first African American player. While this marked a significant step forward, the integration process was far from smooth. The team faced continued criticism and scrutiny, and the legacy of segregation continued to haunt the franchise for many years to come.

The Vince Lombardi Era: A Brief Glimmer of Hope

In 1969, the legendary Vince Lombardi, fresh off his Super Bowl victories with the Green Bay Packers, took over as head coach of the Redskins. His arrival brought a renewed sense of hope and excitement to the team and its fans. Lombardi instilled a culture of discipline and hard work, leading the Redskins to their first winning season in years. Sadly, his tenure was cut short by his untimely death from cancer in 1970. Despite his brief time in Washington, Lombardi left an indelible mark on the franchise and its fans, reminding them what a winning tradition looks like.

Lombardi’s Impact on the Team’s Culture

Lombardi’s arrival transformed the Redskins’ culture, instilling a sense of discipline, accountability, and unwavering commitment to excellence. He demanded the best from his players and coaches, pushing them to reach their full potential. Although his time with the team was brief, his influence was profound, setting the stage for future success.

The George Allen Era: The Over-the-Hill Gang

Following Lombardi’s death, George Allen took over as head coach in 1971, ushering in a new era for the Redskins. Allen was known for his aggressive coaching style and his penchant for acquiring veteran players, earning his team the nickname “The Over-the-Hill Gang.” He led the Redskins to consistent winning seasons and their first Super Bowl appearance in 1973, where they lost to the Miami Dolphins. Allen’s tenure was marked by both success and controversy, as his win-at-all-costs mentality sometimes clashed with team management.

Building a Team of Veterans

Allen’s strategy of acquiring veteran players proved to be a winning formula for the Redskins. He brought in experienced players who were hungry for success, creating a team that was both talented and determined. This approach allowed the Redskins to compete at a high level and consistently contend for championships.

Super Bowl VII Appearance

Under Allen’s leadership, the Redskins reached Super Bowl VII in 1973, marking their first appearance in the championship game. Although they lost to the undefeated Miami Dolphins, their Super Bowl run energized the fanbase and solidified the team’s status as a major contender in the NFL.

The Joe Gibbs Era: Glory Days and Super Bowl Triumphs

The 1980s and early 1990s were arguably the most successful period in Redskins history, thanks to the leadership of head coach Joe Gibbs. Gibbs led the team to three Super Bowl victories (XVII, XXII, and XXVI) with three different quarterbacks (Joe Theismann, Doug Williams, and Mark Rypien), showcasing his coaching brilliance and adaptability. This era was defined by a strong team culture, innovative offensive schemes, and a roster of talented players, including John Riggins, Art Monk, and Darrell Green. The Gibbs era remains a golden age for Redskins fans.

Super Bowl XVII Victory

In 1983, the Redskins defeated the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl XVII, securing their first Super Bowl title. John Riggins’ iconic fourth-down run sealed the victory and cemented his place in Redskins lore. This win marked a turning point for the franchise, establishing them as one of the NFL’s elite teams.

Super Bowl XXII Victory

In 1988, the Redskins triumphed over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXII, with Doug Williams becoming the first African American quarterback to win a Super Bowl. Williams’ performance was record-breaking, throwing for 340 yards and four touchdowns in a single quarter. This victory was a milestone for both the Redskins and the NFL, showcasing the growing diversity and talent within the league.

Super Bowl XXVI Victory

In 1992, the Redskins defeated the Buffalo Bills in Super Bowl XXVI, securing their third Super Bowl title under Joe Gibbs. Mark Rypien led the team to victory, earning Super Bowl MVP honors. This win capped off a decade of dominance for the Redskins, solidifying their legacy as one of the NFL’s most successful franchises.

The Post-Gibbs Era: Struggles and Instability

Following Joe Gibbs’ departure in 1993, the Redskins entered a period of decline and instability. A series of coaching changes, questionable personnel decisions, and ownership controversies plagued the franchise. The team struggled to replicate the success of the Gibbs era, and the once-proud Redskins fanbase grew increasingly frustrated. This period was marked by a lack of direction and a series of failed attempts to rebuild the team.

Coaching Carousel and Front Office Turmoil

The Redskins went through a revolving door of head coaches and front office executives, each with their own vision for the team. This constant turnover created a lack of continuity and stability, hindering the team’s ability to develop a consistent winning strategy. The constant changes also created a sense of uncertainty and frustration among players and fans alike.

On-Field Struggles and Missed Opportunities

The Redskins struggled to compete on the field, consistently missing the playoffs and failing to develop a sustainable winning formula. A series of poor draft picks and free-agent signings further exacerbated the team’s problems. The once-proud franchise became a shadow of its former self, struggling to recapture the glory of the Gibbs era.

The Controversy Surrounding the Team Name

For decades, the Washington Redskins’ name and logo were the subject of intense controversy. Native American groups and their allies argued that the name was a racial slur and that the logo perpetuated harmful stereotypes. Despite mounting pressure, the team’s owner, Daniel Snyder, initially resisted calls for a name change, citing tradition and fan loyalty. However, as social attitudes evolved and corporate sponsors began to withdraw their support, Snyder eventually relented.

Mounting Pressure from Activists and Organizations

Native American activists and organizations waged a decades-long campaign to pressure the Redskins to change their name. They argued that the name was offensive and dehumanizing, and that it perpetuated harmful stereotypes about Native Americans. Their efforts gained momentum over time, as more and more people became aware of the issue and the harm it caused.

Loss of Sponsorships and Public Outcry

As the controversy surrounding the team name intensified, corporate sponsors began to withdraw their support. Major companies like FedEx, Nike, and PepsiCo publicly called on the team to change its name, citing concerns about their brand image and social responsibility. This loss of revenue and the growing public outcry put immense pressure on Daniel Snyder to reconsider his position.

The Name Change and Rebranding

In July 2020, after years of resistance, the Washington Redskins finally announced that they would retire the team name and logo. The team temporarily rebranded as the Washington Football Team while they searched for a permanent replacement. This decision was met with mixed reactions, with some praising it as a long-overdue step towards racial justice, while others lamented the loss of tradition and history.

The Washington Football Team Era

For two seasons, the team played under the temporary name Washington Football Team. This period was marked by uncertainty and transition, as the team navigated the challenges of rebranding while also trying to compete on the field. Despite the unusual circumstances, the team managed to win the NFC East division in 2020, providing a brief moment of optimism for fans.

The Washington Commanders: A New Era Begins

In February 2022, the team officially unveiled its new name: the Washington Commanders. The name was chosen after a lengthy process that involved fan input and consultations with branding experts. The new name is intended to represent leadership, strength, and the spirit of the military community in the Washington, D.C., area. With the new name, the team hopes to usher in a new era of success and unity.

Legacy of the Washington Redskins

The Washington Redskins’ story is one of triumph, controversy, and ultimately, transformation. The team’s early success, iconic players, and Super Bowl victories created a rich and enduring legacy. However, the team’s history is also marked by segregation, controversy surrounding its former name, and a period of decline in the post-Gibbs era. As the Washington Commanders embark on a new chapter, it’s essential to remember the past, learn from its mistakes, and strive to build a more inclusive and successful future. The impact of the Washington Redskins on the NFL and American sports culture is undeniable, and its story will continue to be debated and analyzed for years to come.

Looking ahead, the Washington Commanders have an opportunity to forge a new identity, one that is both respectful of the past and inclusive of all fans. The team’s success on the field will ultimately determine its legacy, but its commitment to social responsibility and community engagement will also play a crucial role. The journey ahead will not be easy, but with strong leadership, a talented roster, and a renewed sense of purpose, the Washington Commanders can build a brighter future for themselves and their fans.

What is next for the Washington Commanders? Share your thoughts on the team’s new direction in the comments below.