by Kenny Tran

Created on: September 18, 2009   Last Updated: September 20, 2009

What exactly made the legendary Bruce Lee so famous around the world? Was it the fact that he performed 2 finger push ups on one hand? Or was it his famous one inch punch that delivered a heck-load of force into his opponent? To tell you the truth, these aspects are of the few that skyrocketed Bruce Lee's fame around the world.

The legend Lee Jun Fan, or Bruce Lee, was born in San Francisco, California on November 27, 1940. Born determined as an actor, Lee made his first films in Hong Kong as a young child. As a teenager Lee often got into a number of reckless fights, so he decided to take Wing Chun Kung Fu to successfully defend himself. Lee learned from the legendary Yip Man, who was said to be the grandfather of the style wing chun. However, in 1959, his parents suggested that he move to the United States due to encountering the Hong Kong police. In 1963, Lee met Linda Emery, and they fell in love at first sight and eventually married each other.

Bruce Lee then made various films including, The Chinese Connection, The Big Boss, Way of the Dragon, Enter the Dragon, but sadly died during the making of the film "Game of death". It was during these films that Lee's fame left its mark.

Bruce Lee wasn't just an actor; he was a martial arts legend. It wasn't just due to the fact that he made his own style named "Jeet Kune Do". He was absolutely phenomenal. His strength and speed were the aspects of a true martial artist. Lee's speed surprised the world as he performed in the tournaments in Long Beach, California. He punched so fast that the martial artists' didn't even have time to react before they blinked. And in Lee's films even slowing them down still made a blur. But it wasn't just speed that shook the world. His strength was. For an impressive feat, Lee performed 2 finger push ups on one hand with ease. Lee also pushed an opponent several feet back with a punch he delivers from only one inch away. And his side kick, possessing awesome power, knocked a 300 pound heavy bag straight through the ceiling. I don't know if you find that impressive, but that seems pretty impressive to me.

To be honest, without Bruce Lee, I don't think martial arts would be where it is today. He was a great philosopher, both in his own style Jeet Kune Do, and other modern styles. Unfortunately at age 32, he died unexpectedly on June 20, 1973. Never before has Bruce Lee, mean so much, to so many.

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