The 1969 Dodge Charger, also known as the “General Lee,” is one of the most iconic cars in television history. First appearing on the popular TV show The Dukes of Hazzard, which ran from 1979 to 1985, the General Lee quickly became a fan favorite for its bright orange paint job, Confederate flag decal on the roof, and its ability to jump over obstacles during chase scenes.
The General Lee was a 1969 Dodge Charger R/T, which was known for its powerful 440 cubic inch V8 engine and muscle car styling. The show’s producers purchased over 300 Chargers for use in the series, and many were destroyed during filming due to the show’s numerous stunts.
The car’s Confederate flag decal on the roof and its horn, which played the first few notes of the song “Dixie,” were both elements that contributed to the controversy surrounding the show. Many felt that the flag and horn were symbols of racism and oppression, and the show faced criticism for its use of them. Despite this, the General Lee remained a beloved piece of nostalgia for many fans of the show.
The General Lee has become something of a cult classic and can still be found at car shows and conventions around the country. Many fans of the show have even built replicas of the car, with some going as far as to install the iconic horn and flag decal. The car’s design and its association with the show has made it a memorable and recognizable vehicle throughout the world.
In conclusion, the 1969 Dodge Charger General Lee, is a car that has left a lasting impression on pop culture and on the hearts of car enthusiasts, despite its association with a controversial symbol.
According to various sources, the producers of The Dukes of Hazzard purchased over 300 1969 Dodge Chargers for use in the series. The cars were used for various stunts, such as jumps and high-speed chases, which resulted in many of them being destroyed during filming. The show’s producers would often purchase used Chargers at car auctions and then modify them for use on the show.
It’s said that around 17-20 General Lees were used for the series, with several of them being used specifically for stunts and others being used for close-up and interior shots. The show’s producers also had a few backup cars on hand in case one of the primary cars was damaged during filming.
Despite the high number of cars used during the show’s run, only a handful of General Lees are known to have survived. Many of them were sold off after the show ended and have since been restored and put on display at car shows and conventions.
The General Lee’s association with the show has made it a memorable and recognizable vehicle throughout the world, and the number of cars used during the show’s run only adds to its legacy and cult status. The Dukes of Hazzard’s use of so many General Lees is a testament to the popularity and impact the show had on pop culture.
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