August 18, 2004

Today in Automotive History 1940

Today in Automotive History

1940 Death Of A Tycoon

Walter P. Chrysler, the American auto tycoon, died on this day. Chrysler began his love affair with mechanics as an apprentice in a railroad machine shop, and soon worked his way up to plant manager for the American Locomotive Company. He later went on to become president of the Buick Motor Company, making it the strongest division of General Motors. In 1919, Chrysler resigned from General Motors to take control of the Maxwell Motor Company, which became the Chrysler Corporation in 1925. The new company, featuring a car that Chrysler designed, was soon a success. Today, the Chrysler Company owns Dodge and Plymouth, and is one of the "Big Three" in the American automotive industry.

Posted by Quality Weenie at August 18, 2004 08:00 AM
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