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Hon. Harland D. Sanders "Kentucky Colonel"

Col. Harland D. Sanders (The Colonel)

Kentucky Colonel, Hon. Harland David Sanders became a colonel twice, he is the greatest example of how a person can use the Kentucky Colonel Title to promote a business idea and will most likely always be an iconic image of a Kentucky Colonel, his image and style has had a major impact on the reach of the state's name; his business enterprise has brought billions of dollars to Kentucky's economy, goodwill and name recognition.

Col. Sanders followed his heartfelt ideas and personal research to develop his style based on the book, "A Kentucky Colonel" by Opie Read which was copyrighted the year of his birth in 1890. When he became a Kentucky Colonel the concept, iconography and reputation of the ideal was already firmly planted in America's psyche based on the character Col. Remington Osbury from the silent film, "The Kentucky Colonel" in 1920.

Col. Sanders did not follow the ideals of the HOKC, nor was he ever requested to serve on their board. Several foundations have been established in his name as well as cooking equipment, streets and other characters modeled incorporating the image he made popular and a part of American culture.

Col Harland Sanders by Winston Shelton

Colonel Sanders: A Kentucky Colonel Icon

Colonel Harland Sanders, the iconic white-suited, goateed figure synonymous with Kentucky Fried Chicken, was a man whose life story is as remarkable as his culinary legacy. Born in 1890 in Henryville, Indiana, Sanders's journey to becoming a globally recognized entrepreneur was marked by resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of success.

Sanders's early life was challenging. His father passed away when he was just six years old, leaving his mother to raise three children. To help his family, Sanders began working at a young age, taking on various odd jobs. His formal education was limited, but he possessed an innate drive and a strong work ethic.

Throughout his life, Sanders dabbled in numerous professions, including farmhand, streetcar conductor, insurance salesman, and even a stint as a lawyer. He also served in the U.S. Army, where he earned the honorary title of "Colonel" from the Governor of Kentucky for his contributions to the state's cuisine. However, it was his culinary skills that would ultimately lead him to lasting fame.

Colonel Sanders - Wikipedia

In the 1930s, Sanders began operating a service station in Corbin, Kentucky, where he also served home-cooked meals to travelers. His fried chicken, prepared with a secret blend of 11 herbs and spices, quickly gained popularity. As demand grew, he expanded his operations, opening a motel and restaurant across the street.

Sanders's success was not without setbacks. A new interstate highway bypassed Corbin, significantly impacting his business. Undeterred, he decided to franchise his fried chicken recipe, traveling across the country to sell it to restaurant owners. He faced numerous rejections but persevered, eventually finding success in the 1950s.

By the 1960s, Kentucky Fried Chicken had become a national phenomenon. Sanders's distinctive image, complete with his white suit and string tie, became a symbol of the brand. He remained actively involved in the company, traveling extensively to promote it and ensuring quality control.

In 1964, at the age of 74, Sanders sold his interest in Kentucky Fried Chicken for $2 million. He continued to serve as a brand ambassador, making appearances and promoting the company until his death in 1980.

Colonel Harland Sanders's life is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of one's dreams. He overcame numerous obstacles, including poverty, limited education, and business setbacks, to achieve remarkable success. His story serves as an inspiration to entrepreneurs and anyone striving to make their mark on the world. His legacy extends far beyond his famous fried chicken recipe; it is a reminder that with hard work, dedication, and a dash of entrepreneurial spirit, anything is possible.

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