The NFL team that was historically known as the Pirates is the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Pittsburgh Steelers: From Gridiron Pirates to Steel City Titans
The storied franchise now known globally as the Pittsburgh Steelers actually began its journey in the National Football League under a different moniker. Founded on July 8, 1933, by Arthur J. Rooney, the team was initially known as the Pittsburgh Pirates.
This identity as the Pirates was maintained for several years, specifically until 1940. During this early period, the team shared its name with the city's established Major League Baseball (MLB) team, the Pittsburgh Pirates. This practice of sports teams in the same city sharing a name was not uncommon in the early days of professional sports.
Key Historical Details:
- Founding: The team was established by Arthur J. Rooney.
- Original Name: From its inception, the franchise was known as the Pittsburgh Pirates.
- Name Change: The team officially changed its name from the Pirates to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1940, adopting an identity that paid homage to the city's strong steel industry.
- Franchise Legacy: Today, the Pittsburgh Steelers stand as the seventh-oldest franchise in the NFL, a testament to their enduring presence and rich history in professional football.
The evolution from the Pittsburgh Pirates to the Pittsburgh Steelers marks a significant chapter in the team's long and successful history, cementing its connection to the industrial heritage of Pittsburgh.
Learn more about the Pittsburgh Steelers' history at the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
