Ep 2. Night Two

NASCAR: The Rise of American Speed is a thrilling docu-series that chronicles the history and evolution of stock car racing in America. In season 1 episode 2, entitled "Night Two," viewers are taken on a journey through the early years of NASCAR, when moonshiners and amateur drivers would race each other on the weekends in the Piedmont region of the Carolinas.

The episode begins with a look at the origins of NASCAR, which can be traced back to the end of Prohibition in the United States. With the legal sale of alcohol, many moonshiners found themselves out of work and in need of a new source of income. Racing their souped-up cars on the back roads of the South became a way to earn a living and showcase their driving skills.

As the popularity of these races grew, a few key figures emerged who would help shape the future of stock car racing in America. One of these figures was Bill France, Sr., a former driver who recognized the potential of organizing and regulating the racing scene. In 1947, France founded NASCAR and held the first official race the following year at the Charlotte Speedway.

The episode also delves into the personalities and stories of some of the early racers who helped establish NASCAR as a legitimate sport. These include drivers like Red Byron, who was the first champion of the NASCAR Cup Series in 1949, and Tim Flock, who was known for his colorful antics both on and off the track.

One of the key themes of "Night Two" is the dangerous and sometimes deadly nature of early stock car racing. With few safety regulations in place, drivers often took extreme risks in order to win. The episode tells the story of Marshall Teague, a talented driver who died in a high-speed crash during a test run in 1959. Teague's death was a wake-up call for NASCAR and helped spur the development of safety measures that are still in place today.

Along with the focus on early NASCAR history, "Night Two" also explores the cultural and societal factors that contributed to the sport's rise in popularity. Cars and speed have long been a part of American culture, and stock car racing offered a way for fans to experience the thrill of speed in a way that was accessible and exciting.

Overall, "Night Two" is an engrossing and entertaining look at the early days of NASCAR and the people who helped make it the sport it is today. With compelling stories, fascinating history, and plenty of high-octane racing action, this episode is a must-watch for fans of NASCAR and anyone interested in the evolution of American racing.