This June is LGBTQ Pride month and the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots which sparked the Gay Liberation Movement. In a way, professional sport can act as cultural mirror. That endeavor’s figurative reflection allows sociologists and sports historians to study and comment on whether our society may be progressing with tolerance.

It’s fitting to look back at 1969, and in particular, view the status of pro football in our Nation’s capital. The National Football League was celebrating its 50th season as a professional circuit. Sadly, the last time DC football fans saw their club win the NFL Championship was 1942. 1955 was its last winning season, thereafter mediocrity and losing ruled the Washington gridiron. Praying for a football miracle, Washingtonians’ devotions were answered as the franchise landed legendary Green Bay Packer coach Vince Lombardi.