1920s Motorcycle Chariot Racing. #MotorcycleChariot #1920s #RacingHistory #VintageMotorcycle #LondonHistory | VibrantHistory

In 532 AD, Constantinople erupted in the deadly Nika Riots—a week of rebellion sparked by chariot racing factions that nearly toppled Emperor Justinian I. As fires raged and mobs demanded his head, Justinian prepared to abandon the throne. Enter Empress Theodora: with fierce determination, she delivered a legendary speech, declaring, "Purple makes a fine burial shroud," convincing him to stay and crush the revolt. This pivotal moment not only saved his reign but also enabled landmark achievement

The iconic chariot race in William Wyler's BEN-HUR ('59) took 10 weeks to shoot and was coordinated by Yakima Canutt. It has influenced filmmakers to this day including George Lucas who said this scene inspired the pod race sequence in THE PHANTOM MENACE ('99). #31DaysofOscar | Turner Classic Movies: TCM