National Air Races begin in US
The aerial populism of Depression-era America shaped air racing in the 1930s. Self-reliant individuals took readily available technologies and fielded air racers to achieve fame and fortune. The National Air Races found a consistent home at Cleveland, Ohio, but other major American cities also hosted them.
The two marquee events of the National Air Races were the Thompson Trophy closed-course race and the Bendix Trophy transcontinental race. A new generation of daredevil pilots joined Jimmy Doolittle to make air racing and speed an increasingly popular aspect of American culture.
Event Date:
Thursday, January 1, 1920
Image Reference:
Doolittle and the 1932 Thompson Trophy race
Full Size Image Reference:
Doolittle and the 1932 Thompson Trophy race
Carousel Image Reference:
Doolittle and the 1932 Thompson Trophy race
Sub Category:
Aviation
People Connections:
Lt. James H. "Jimmy" Doolittle
Technology & Innovation Connections:
Reed Propeller
Streamline Design
Aircraft Connections:
The Curtiss R3C-2
Event Year:
1 920
Event Tier:
