National Cougar Day

An image of a serene cougar in its natural habitat, gracefully gazing into the distance. The cougar has a dignified presence, highlighting its majestic nature. The scene depicts a beautiful mountain landscape, bathed in warm sunlight. The cougar's sleek fur and powerful muscles convey its athleticism. To add an interesting twist, the image could feature a fashionable adventurer observing the cougar, wearing outdoor gear and sporting a trendy hat. The dynamic combination showcases the allure of exploring the wilderness and appreciating the cougars' enigmatic charm.. — National cougar day illustration

Can you hear that in the distance? No, it's not the echo of a mountain lion but the joyous celebrations of National Cougar Day! This magnificent creature has its own special day and we're here to delve into its history. With only 13 mentions online and peaking on June 12, 2019, we have noticed a burgeoning internet appreciation for these silently stalking, top-of-the-food-chain champions. The day is yet to earn the roaring recognition it deserves, but let's change that by adding a touch of earth-shaking, ridge-line-roaring fun to it!

When is Cougar Day?

It's national cougar day on the 12th June.

Exploring National Cougar Day's History

Despite cougars', also known as pumas or mountain lions, frequent appearances in wildlife documentaries, they only took their rightful place in the national days calendar recently. Our online records reveal a spike of 13 mentions on June 12, 2019. This suggests that National Cougar Day could have originated around this time. Unfortunately, there isn't much online document of the mastermind behind this creation, but we give them top marks for celebrating these enigmatic creatures.

The Hows and Whys of Celebrating

The best way to celebrate National Cougar Day? Learn more about these majestic beasts, their habitat and challenges that they face. Marathoning wildlife documentaries is just one click away, or why not visit a zoo if possible? Become a wildlife champion yourself by donating to a conservation trust or spreading awareness through your own social media platforms. Change starts on a personal level, so let's work together to protect our cougar compadres.

Unearthing the Lesser-Known

Did you know cougars are top-tier athletes? They can leap 15 feet high and sprint up to 50 mph, putting your favorite Olympic sprinters to shame! They're also quite the loners, preferring solitary living over socializing. Perhaps they're onto something here!

History behind the term 'Cougar'

1967

The Birth of the Term

The term 'cougar' was first used in 1967 to refer to women who pursued relationships with younger men. However, it wasn't widely recognized or used at this time.

1764

Birth of the term 'cougar'

The term 'cougar' originates from the year 1764. It first appeared in a book called 'The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano', written by ex-slave Olaudah Equiano. In this book, Equiano referred to a cougar as a large American feline. This marked the earliest known usage of the term in reference to an animal.

1987

Emergence of 'cougar' as a slang term

In 1987, the term 'cougar' gained a new meaning when it started being used as a slang term to describe older women seeking relationships with younger men. This usage was popularized in the Canadian sitcom 'I Married a Shadow' where a character referred to an older woman pursuing younger men as a 'cougar'. This marked the first known instance of the term being used to describe a human characteristic.

2001

Cougar Craze

In 2001, the term 'cougar' started gaining popularity with the release of the film 'The Graduate'. The movie featured an older woman seducing a younger man, fueling the fascination with older women dating younger men.

2001

Spread of 'cougar' in popular culture

The term 'cougar' gained widespread visibility and popularity in the early 2000s. It was further cemented in popular culture by the release of the book 'Cougar: A Guide for Older Women Dating Younger Men' by Valerie Gibson in 2001. This book explored the emerging trend of age-gap relationships and coined the term 'cougar' as a positive and empowering label for older women who pursued younger partners.

2005

Cougar Culture Enters the Mainstream

The term 'cougar' took a larger cultural leap in 2005 with the publication of the book 'Cougar: A Guide for Older Women Dating Younger Men' by Valerie Gibson. This book brought attention to the term and solidified its place in popular culture.

2009

Television series and references

In 2009, the TV series 'Cougar Town', starring Courteney Cox, further propelled the term 'cougar' into the mainstream. The show humorously depicted the dating lives of older women and showcased the term as a source of pride rather than stigma. 'Cougar Town' contributed to the continued popularity and acceptance of the term in society.

2009

TV Shows Embrace the Cougar Phenomenon

In 2009, the popularity of the term 'cougar' continued to grow as TV shows like 'Cougar Town' and 'The Cougar' premiered, depicting older women dating younger men. These shows further contributed to the mainstream acceptance of the term.

Present

Cultural impact and versatility of 'cougar'

Today, the term 'cougar' has become a part of popular culture. It is frequently used in various media platforms, including movies, television, and music. The term carries different connotations depending on the context. It can be used in a positive light to celebrate older women who pursue relationships with younger men, while also being used in a derogatory manner to objectify and stereotype women. The cultural impact of 'cougar' reminds us of the ever-evolving nature of language and how it reflects societal changes.

2010

Cougar Dating Goes Online

With the rise of online dating, cougar-themed dating websites and apps emerged around 2010. These platforms catered specifically to older women seeking younger men, providing a space for the cougar culture to thrive.

Present

Cougar: Empowerment and Liberation

Today, the term 'cougar' continues to be associated with empowerment and liberation for older women. It challenges traditional age-based dating norms and celebrates the confidence and independence of mature women pursuing relationships with younger partners.

Did you know?

The cougar is the largest cat that can purr and meow. Larger cats like lions and tigers might growl or roar, but purring is the cougar’s vocalist specialty.