While the title may be a little over the top, the video below is one of the most interesting tellings of the infamous 1969 Talladega 500 that we have ever seen. With video from the period, cool interviews from the people that were there, and a solid historical look, this is a look at one of the most potentially disastrous moments in NASCAR history.

The massive speedway was perhaps the ultimate example of, “If big is good, massive has to be better!” in NASCAR history. It was also the ultimate example of Big Bill France, his philosophy, his style, and his vision, which was sometimes a lack of vision. Yes, the race was ultimately run but at what cost? This was easily the greatest driver/organization standoff in stock car racing history and even 50 years on, the story still is relevant to racing today.

If you do not know the story of this race, prepare to be educated. If you know most of the story, prepare to get the rest of the inside scoop. This was a weekend that changed NASCAR history forever. No, it may not have changed as much as the drivers wanted and it may have changed a little more than NASCAR wanted and perhaps that’s the greatest legacy of this bizarre weekend.

Press play below to see this really well done video on the 1969 Talladega race