Southern Moonshine, Detroit Wheels, and the Birth of NASCAR: An Unforgettable Journey

In the heart of the American South, where rolling hills met dense forests, a clandestine industry thrived under the shadow of Prohibition. It was the era of moonshine runners, daring individuals who defied the law to produce and distribute illicit whiskey.

These moonshiners, with their lightning-fast cars and ingenious techniques, inadvertently laid the groundwork for a sport that would capture the imagination of millions: NASCAR.

Driving with the Devil: Southern Moonshine, Detroit Wheels, and the Birth of NASCAR

by Neal Thompson

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	42705 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	531 pages

FREE

Bootleggers and the Moonshine Trail

As Prohibition swept across the nation in 1920, moonshiners found themselves at the forefront of a lucrative and dangerous operation. They established secretive stills deep in the mountains and utilized a network of backroads, known as the moonshine trail, to transport their illegal cargo.

To evade law enforcement, moonshiners modified their cars, making them faster and lighter. They stripped off any unnecessary weight, souped up their engines, and installed reinforced suspensions to navigate the rough terrain.

Detroit Wheels and the Early Stock Cars

Meanwhile, in the bustling industrial heart of Detroit, automotive pioneers were making their mark. The likes of Henry Ford revolutionized transportation with the invention of the Model T, putting cars within reach of the masses.

As the demand for faster and more reliable cars increased, stock car racing emerged as a popular form of competition. These races featured everyday automobiles, modified to enhance their performance on the track.

The Birth of NASCAR

In 1948, a visionary promoter named Bill France Sr. saw the potential in stock car racing and organized the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR). The first official NASCAR race was held at Daytona Beach, Florida, and the rest is history.

NASCAR quickly gained popularity, capturing the hearts of fans with its thrilling races and relatable drivers. The drivers, many of whom had honed their skills as moonshine runners, brought their daring spirits and competitive edge to the track.

A Legacy of Speed and Rebellion

The legacy of Southern moonshine, Detroit wheels, and NASCAR is one of speed, rebellion, and innovation. From the moonshiners who defied the law to the automotive pioneers who pushed the boundaries of engineering, the story of NASCAR is a testament to the American spirit.

Today, NASCAR remains one of the most popular sports in the United States, with millions of fans cheering on their favorite drivers every race. And while the days of moonshine runners may be long gone, their influence on the sport is still evident in the daring spirit of NASCAR drivers and the thunderous roar of their engines.

Southern Moonshine, Detroit Wheels, and the Birth of NASCAR tells the captivating story of how an illegal activity led to the creation of a beloved sport. It is a tale of innovation, rebellion, and the enduring passion for speed that has captured the hearts of generations of fans.

Whether you're a seasoned NASCAR enthusiast or just discovering this thrilling sport, Southern Moonshine, Detroit Wheels, and the Birth of NASCAR is a must-read. It is an unforgettable journey through the history, legends, and legacy of one of America's greatest pastimes.

Driving with the Devil: Southern Moonshine, Detroit Wheels, and the Birth of NASCAR

by Neal Thompson

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	42705 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	531 pages

FREE