In 1871, the first state-assisted college in Arkansas was established. This college was named the Arkansas Industrial University. After a name change in 1899, the school became what it is now known as: the University of Arkansas.
With a population of roughly 32,000 students, the University of Arkansas has provided higher education for over 150 years. A university rife with history, it is a staple of the Bear State.
Perhaps the name most commonly associated with the University of Arkansas is the “Razorbacks.” A term of endearment for the university, the name references the wild hogs of Arkansas, a creature deemed ruthless and dangerous when backed into a corner. Though the school mascot was originally a cardinal, the razorback became popular in the early 1900s and became the school’s official mascot in 1910.
One of the best ways to see a razorback is to take a stroll around the north end of Arkansas’ Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium and see the 25-foot high, 50-foot wide statue depicting a “Wild Band of Razorbacks.” The epic depiction of six wild boars of the woods of Arkansas perfectly captures the ferocity associated with the famed school.
The Razorback is an important tradition for Arkansas. Another ritual associated with the university is the Hog Call.
Created in the 1920s, the Hog Call is an important part of the experience down in Fayetteville. It’s a simple process: all a fan needs to do is raise their arms above their head while yelling “Woooo,” then take both arms down while shouting “Pig” and finally raise their right arm and say “Sooie.” The final step is putting all three parts together and joining thousands of fans in screaming “Woooo. Pig. Soooie!” Add an enthusiastic “Razorbacks” at the end and a successful Hog Call has been completed.
Tradition isn’t the only thing emphasized by school culture — the University’s athletics have been as well. Arkansas last won a football championship in 1964 under head coach Frank Broyles in an undefeated season. Recently, Arkansas has struggled on the gridiron, though outside of football, Arkansas has fared well in national championships.
The men’s and women’s track teams hold 39 national championships for the school and, in 1994, the Razorbacks overcame a college basketball powerhouse when they defeated Duke in the March Madness championship game. These victories have helped place Arkansas seventh all-time in Division I national championship team titles. Arkansas finished 18th in the 2024 Learfield Directors’ Cup standings.
In various ways, Arkansas and Texas share similarities in their history and rituals, especially with the SEC. Similar to Texas, Arkansas was also an expansion team alongside South Carolina in 1991. Arkansas maintains their status as a university that celebrates culture and tradition, on and off the field.
