Ole’s is more than just a catchy chant – it’s a symbol of unity, pride, and passion for the University of Mississippi. For students, understanding the meaning behind Ole’s is important for feeling connected to their school and its traditions.
Ole’s originated in the 1890s and was first used as a cheer at football games. It wasn’t until the 1920s that the chant we know today – “Hotty Toddy, gosh almighty, who the hell are we? Hey! Flim flam, bim bam, Ole Miss by damn!” – was adopted. The cheer has since become a staple at Ole Miss sports events, as well as at social events and other gatherings.
On the surface, Ole’s may seem like a simple cheer, but it holds deeper meaning for the Ole Miss community. The phrase “Hotty Toddy” is a slang term that means something along the lines of “cheers” or “salutations.” For Ole Miss students and alumni, saying “Hotty Toddy” is a way of greeting each other and showing their Ole Miss pride.
The phrase “Ole Miss by damn” is another important component of the Ole’s cheer. It’s a proclamation of loyalty and devotion to the university, even in the face of adversity. The phrase serves as a reminder to students and alumni that their connection to Ole Miss is unbreakable, and that they should always stand up for their school.
The origins of the rest of the chant are somewhat unclear, but they add to the energy and excitement of the cheer. “Gosh almighty” is a playful exclamation that emphasizes the enthusiasm of the Ole Miss community. The nonsense words “flim flam” and “bim bam” are meant to be fun and catchy, and to add to the overall spirit of the chant.
Teaching students about the meaning of Ole’s is important because it helps them feel like they’re part of a community. Understanding the history and significance of the cheer can make students feel more connected to their school, and can help them take pride in being a part of the Ole Miss family. Encouraging students to participate in Ole’s at games and events can also be a way to boost school spirit and create a sense of tradition.
