Price: $312.12
Hot Rod Empire is a vivid celebration of the genesis and meteoric expansion of the car enthusiast culture under the guidance of Robert Petersen. The close of World War II signified the liberation of suppressed energy and a renewed zest for life. This translated to the manifestation of long-suppressed desires, such as the acquisition of a new car. For a unique subset of the population, predominantly youthful veterans, this exhilarating post-war era represented a revival of car construction and racing.
In a time when financial prosperity was the norm and thrilling new vehicles and speed parts were in abundance, Robert Petersen, a youthful photographer based in Southern California and a veteran of the Army Air Corps, spotted the burgeoning hot rod culture in Los Angeles and its environs. His inaugural move was the organization of the Los Angeles Hot Rod Exhibition in 1948. His second, and undeniably ingenious move, was the introduction of the first edition of Hot Rod magazine at the same event.
From this launching point, Petersen Publishing Company catapulted to become the paramount enthusiast publisher in America. Petersen’s publications became the nexus for everything related to the car, truck, and motorcycle hobbies, fostering and promoting aspects ranging from car construction to racing and show events. Hot Rod, Motor Trend, Car Craft, Motorcyclist, Off-Road and Four Wheel Drive, along with some 75 other enthusiast titles, commanded the magazine racks, significantly influencing the transportation and numerous other hobby sectors.
In essence, Hot Rod Empire is a vivid celebration of the birth and the meteoric rise of the car enthusiast culture under the stewardship of Petersen.