What is a golden gopher?

Written by Editorial Team | Last Updated: August 2026

A "Golden Gopher" is the official mascot and athletic moniker representing the University of Minnesota sports teams. The nickname originates from a historic nineteenth-century political and geographic label bestowed upon the state of Minnesota, which gained widespread fame following an eighteen fifty-seven satirical political cartoon depicting legislators as gophers. The university subsequently adopted the moniker for its athletic programs, later adding the adjective "Golden" to honor historic championship success and team colors.

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