The Figurative Origin:
The term likely originated as a metaphor describing a situation where a large number of people or things pile on top of each other, similar to how a pack of dogs might pile on top of a bone or another object. This imagery suggests a chaotic and potentially overwhelming situation.
The Real-Life Connection:
While the metaphorical use of "dogpile" predates the actual event, it gained further notoriety in 1989 when a Chicago police officer named Rolando Cruz was beaten by several officers after being falsely accused of a crime. The beating was so severe that it became known as the "dogpile" incident. This event helped solidify the term in popular culture and its association with excessive force and mob mentality.
Other Contributing Factors:
* Early Use in Journalism: The term "dogpile" appeared in news reports as early as the 1970s to describe situations where a crowd of people swarmed a person or object.
* Popularization in Media: The term "dogpile" gained further prominence in the 1990s and 2000s through its use in news media and pop culture, further solidifying its association with chaotic and overwhelming situations.
In summary, the word "dogpile" originated as a figurative expression, referencing the chaotic piling of dogs on top of something. Its use gained traction in the late 20th century due to its association with the notorious "dogpile" incident involving a Chicago police officer. The term now broadly refers to situations where a large number of people or things overwhelm something or someone.