Big 12 School History

The Big 12 Conference is a powerhouse of college sports, and its schools have some of the most storied histories in all athletics. Each school has a unique story, from Texas to Oklahoma to Kansas State, making it stand out. Whether you’re an avid sports fan or just looking for something interesting, here’s a brief overview of the history behind each Big 12 school.

Texas: The Longhorns are one of college football's oldest teams and were founded in 1893 as The University Of Texas Varsity Football Team. They won their first national championship in 1963 under legendary head coach Darrell Royal and have gone on to win four more since then (1969, 1970, 2005 & 2009). Their rivalry with Oklahoma dates back over 100 years and is known as "The Red River Rivalry."

Oklahoma: Founded in 1895 by former students from Presbyterian College (now Northeastern State University), OU went on to become one of college football's most successful programs throughout the 20th century under coaches like Bud Wilkinson and Barry Switzer, who led them through several undefeated seasons including seven national championships between 1950-2000! Their rivalry with Texas continues today as they compete annually for bragging rights at what has come to be known as “the Red River Showdown."

Kansas State: Established way back in 1863 during America's Civil War era when it was initially called Bluemont Central College before becoming KSU two decades later; this university boasts many accomplishments both academically & athletically, including 24 conference titles across various varsity sports divisions such as basketball & baseball plus numerous NCAA tournament appearances! Its biggest rivalries include those against Kansas Jayhawks, which began during territorial days before statehood and granted both territories statehood status respectively in 1854/1911, making them the two oldest universities within current boundaries comprising Sunflower Nation, aka 'Big 8.'

Iowa State: IowaState Cyclones trace their roots back to 1861, founding Ames Agricultural College as part of the Morrill Land Grant Act signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln the same day Confederate forces attacked Fort Sumter, SC, sparking the American Civil War. However, the name changed twice in 1907, finally settling with the ISU moniker. The institution currently holds the highest enrollment numbers amongst other public universities located in the Midwest United States, boasting an impressive athletic resume, including 11 National Championships 6 different varsity sports disciplines ranging from men women's track field, soccer, tennis, wrestling, volleyball, golf, cross country skiing swimming diving rowing equestrianism competitive cheerleading spirit squads etcetera... With fierce competition between bitter rivals.