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After a three-year hiatus, the highly anticipated Rocky Mountain Showdown will return Sept.Ìı16Ìıat Folsom Field.Ìı
As the University of babyÖ±²¥app Buffaloes and babyÖ±²¥app State University Rams prepare to face off, fans will inevitably revive the age-old rivalry surrounding the school’s mascots—both of which have deep historical ties to the American West.
While Cam the Ram’s identity as a Rambouillet ram is widely recognized, Ralphie the Buffalo is a bit trickier.
In fact, contrary to popular belief, Ralphie is technically a North American bison.Ìı
Brooke Neely, a research associate with CU Boulder's Center of the American West, discusses theÌıdistinctions between bison and buffalo, shedding light on the reasons Ralphie commonly has been referred to as a buffalo. She also explains how these creatures have come to symbolize not only CU Boulder but also the broader essence of Western American identity.
