[oman]

I remember reading a long time ago (the early 90's) a  feature story in Sports Illustrated about Jackie Sherrill, a coach who sometimes drew the attention of NCAA investigators, when he went to Starkville to coach Mississippi State,  The article described the hatred between Mississippi and MSU.  It also mentioned something that I never forgot - the origins of "Ole Miss".  The article explained that term came from the days of slavery - the slaves would call the daughter of the plantation owner "Young Miss" whereas the wife of the master would be called "Ole Miss".  Hence, this nickname for the school is an unpleasant reference for those with knowledge of history.

oman, is there more to the story, or do I have it right?

I think you are correct, although I originally misunderstood it to mean the top ranking female slave in the household.

My personal reasons to find it objectionable are that it is such a direct link to that particular past.  Whereas I see the caricatures, those to me exist in their own cartoon world.  I think someone above used the word "stereotypical betrayal" which describes the confusing nature of mascots infused with so much historical confusion and prejudice.

Whereas Ole miss?  No caricature needed.

Not saying one is worse than the other.  Just that we each have our own buttons. 

[oman]

I remember reading a long time ago (the early 90's) a  feature story in Sports Illustrated about Jackie Sherrill, a coach who sometimes drew the attention of NCAA investigators, when he went to Starkville to coach Mississippi State,  The article described the hatred between Mississippi and MSU.  It also mentioned something that I never forgot - the origins of "Ole Miss".  The article explained that term came from the days of slavery - the slaves would call the daughter of the plantation owner "Young Miss" whereas the wife of the master would be called "Ole Miss".  Hence, this nickname for the school is an unpleasant reference for those with knowledge of history.

oman, is there more to the story, or do I have it right?

I think you are correct, although I originally misunderstood it to mean the top ranking female slave in the household.

My personal reasons to find it objectionable are that it is such a direct link to that particular past.  Whereas I see the caricatures, those to me exist in their own cartoon world.  I think someone above used the word "stereotypical betrayal" which describes the confusing nature of mascots infused with so much historical confusion and prejudice.

Whereas Ole miss?  No caricature needed.

Not saying one is worse than the other.  Just that we each have our own buttons.