Kansas used the actual Civil War to hype up a college football game with Missouri

In the world of college football, some rivalries have a history that spans generations. One such rivalry is the 'Border War' between Kansas and Missouri, a competition that gained even more significance due to its ties to the Civil War. This week's 122nd edition of this rivalry game saw Kansas host Missouri, both teams currently undefeated with a record of 1-0.

The tension surrounding this matchup was evident from the beginning of the week, with Kansas sharing images from a mural painted by John Steuart Curry. The mural, titled "Tragic Prelude," depicts abolitionist John Brown in the center, holding a Bible and a rifle. He is flanked by both Union and Confederate soldiers, showcasing the conflict that existed in Kansas during the build-up to the American Civil War.

The message was clear: Kansas is playing not just for a football win, but to honor their heroes and condemn their villains. The game was framed as a battle between the forces of good and evil, with the reference to John Brown and the "Tragic Prelude" painting emphasizing this narrative.

Moreover, the Kansas football team used imagery of William Quantrill, the leader of the pro-Confederate group known as Quantrill's Raiders, who were infamous for the Lawrence Massacre. This attack resulted in the deaths of 150 men and boys in Lawrence, Kansas. The team also highlighted the Jay-Hawkers, anti-slavery fighters in Kansas who clashed with Quantrill's Raiders during the prelude to the Civil War.

For Kansas, this rivalry is not just about football, but about standing up for what is right against what is wrong. The intensity of this rivalry game was fueled by a deep-seated pride in their history and a determination to honor the sacrifices made during the Civil War.