Proposed
1993
City
Baltimore
League History
Team History
/ Baltimore Bombers
Nickname
Bombers - The Baltimore Bombers is a nickname associated with Baltimore for many years. The origin of this nickname dates back to 1933, when an NFL team from the city was established and named after a famous bomber plane, the B-17 Flying Fortress. Since then, it has become synonymous with football in Baltimore and is still used today by fans when referring to their beloved Ravens or Orioles teams.
Baltimore Bombers Origin
The name itself was inspired by one of America’s most iconic planes during World War II, which also had a unique history. The B-17 Flying Fortress first took flight in 1935 and quickly gained notoriety due to its use in strategic bombing missions throughout Europe during WWII. This plane became so popular that it earned nicknames such as “the Queen of Heaven” or “the Angelic Avenger." It also inspired numerous other aircraft designs, including Boeing's 707 airliner series, which is still widely used today!
In recognition of this historic aircraft and its role in helping win WWII, the owners decided to name their new NFL franchise after it – thus giving birth to what we now know as The Baltimore Bombers! Even though they only lasted four seasons before disbanding due to financial difficulties at the end of the 1937 season, they left behind a legacy that lives on through current-day sports fans who proudly wear their colors whenever cheering on either side at M&T Bank Stadium (home stadium shared between both franchises).
So next time you hear someone talking about "the bombers" while watching your favorite team play - remember where those words came from! A tribute not just any old thing but rather something special - honoring all those brave men & women who fought hard so we could enjoy our freedom here today... Go Bombers!!
Championship
Stadium
Owner
Malcolm Glazer
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history
- 1993
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Proposed Baltimore Bomber Team
Baltimore was not awarded an expansion team, passed up in favor of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Jacksonville, Florida. The Bombers proposal was believed to be near the bottom of the list of contenders, and league commissioner Paul Tagliabue opposed any expansion to Baltimore, saying “some towns are football towns and some towns are museum towns. I guess Baltimore is a ...
Baltimore Bombers History
The Baltimore Bombers name was chosen to honor the B-17 Flying Fortress, one of the most iconic aircraft of World War II. Known for its strength and reliability, the plane inspired a team identity that reflected Baltimore’s toughness and spirit. Even as a proposed NFL team, the concept captured fans’ imaginations and connected history with sport.
In 1993, Baltimore was determined to secure an NFL franchise. The Baltimore Bombers football proposal stood out, blending tradition with a bold identity. Despite strong local interest, the NFL awarded expansion teams to Charlotte and Jacksonville instead. This decision ended the Bombers’ hopes, though Baltimore’s pursuit of football remained strong and passionate.
Although the Baltimore Bombers never became a reality, the name continues to echo in the city’s sports conversations. Fans often recall the proposed franchise as part of Baltimore’s larger fight to return to the NFL. In many ways, the Bombers’ story paved the way for the arrival of the Ravens, who later became a proud symbol of Baltimore football success.
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