H.R. (Bum) Bright owned the Dallas Cowboys immediately before Jerry Jones purchased a majority interest in the team in 1989.
The Transition of Dallas Cowboys Ownership
The Dallas Cowboys franchise has seen several pivotal ownership changes throughout its storied history. Before the era dominated by Jerry Jones, the team was under the stewardship of H.R. (Bum) Bright, a notable Dallas businessman.
H.R. (Bum) Bright's Tenure (1984-1989)
H.R. (Bum) Bright acquired the Dallas Cowboys in 1984. His five-year ownership period preceded one of the most significant shifts in the franchise's history. During the broader period of the 1970s and early 1980s, the Cowboys had already solidified their reputation as "America's Team." This enduring nickname was earned through their consistent dominance in regular seasons and their triumphs in two Super Bowls, all under the guidance of legendary head coach Tom Landry. Bright inherited a team with an immense legacy, setting the stage for the dramatic changes that followed his sale.
Jerry Jones Acquires the Cowboys
A landmark moment in NFL history occurred in 1989 when Jerry Jones purchased a majority interest in the Dallas Cowboys from H.R. (Bum) Bright. This acquisition marked not just a change in ownership, but a complete overhaul of the team's operations, leading to a new chapter for the franchise that continues to this day.
Key Ownership Milestones
Understanding the sequence of ownership helps illustrate the lineage of control for the Dallas Cowboys:
- Clint Murchison Jr. (1960-1984): The original owner and founder of the Dallas Cowboys, under whom the team achieved its "America's Team" status and won two Super Bowls.
- H.R. (Bum) Bright (1984-1989): Purchased the team from Murchison, serving as the direct predecessor to Jerry Jones.
- Jerry Jones (1989-Present): Acquired the majority interest from Bright, ushering in the modern era of the Dallas Cowboys.
For more detailed information on the history of the Dallas Cowboys, you can explore the team's official historical overview.
