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by Daydreamer on July 27th, 2005

Daydreamer

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How did the tradition of calling "shotgun" in order to secure your position in the front passenger seat of a vehicle originate?

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  • by Scoundral on July 28th, 2005

    Scoundral

    The phrase "riding shotgun" originated in 1963 from old west movies in which wagons would oft have the passenger using a shotgun to fend off potential attackers, leaving the driver to worry about the reins.

    However, calling "shotgun" is much more contemporary, likely not predating the late 80s, early 90s. It's a juvenile practice and is often used as a joke more than taking literally.

    Comments

    • lacks evidence, but you made valid points. here's a cookie

      Answers101

      by Answers101 on March 19th, 2006

    • the phrase came about 100 years BEFORE that, with a HIRED guard riding stagecoaches and transport wagons, for protection.
      Also, it predates the 1960s as a phrase.
      sorry "scoundral".

      surplusman

      by surplusman on January 24th, 2008

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