Colonel Sanders

Date of Birth: September 9, 1890

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Date of Death: December 16, 1980

Biography

Harland David Sanders, better known as Colonel Sanders, was an American businessman and the founder of the fast-food chicken restaurant chain Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC). Born in Henryville, Indiana, Sanders faced numerous challenges throughout his life before achieving success. He left home at the age of 13 and worked various jobs, including as a farmer, streetcar conductor, and insurance salesman. In 1930, Sanders opened his first restaurant in a small service station in Corbin, Kentucky, where he began to serve his famous fried chicken. His unique blend of 11 herbs and spices became wildly popular, and in 1952, he began franchising his chicken business. By the mid-1960s, KFC had expanded internationally, and in 1964, Sanders sold the company for $2 million but remained its spokesperson. Recognized worldwide by his white suit and string tie, Sanders became an enduring symbol of the brand. He passed away in 1980, leaving behind a legacy that revolutionized the fast-food industry.

5 Interesting Facts about Colonel Sanders

1. Colonel Sanders was not a military colonel; the title “Colonel” was an honorary one given by the state of Kentucky.

2. He perfected his secret recipe of 11 herbs and spices in 1939.

3. Before starting KFC, Sanders operated a successful motel and restaurant, which unfortunately burned down in 1939.

4. At the age of 65, Sanders started KFC franchising with only a $105 Social Security check.

5. By the time of his death, there were over 6,000 KFC outlets in 48 countries.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Colonel Sanders

1. “There’s no reason to be the richest man in the cemetery. You can’t do any business from there.”

2. “My life is devoted to letting the world know the goodness of Kentucky Fried Chicken.”

3. “I’m against retiring. The thing that keeps a man alive is having something to do.”

4. “I’ve only had two rules. Do all you can and do it the best you can.”

5. “The hard way builds solidly a foundation of confidence that cannot be swept away.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Colonel Sanders’ net worth was estimated to be around $3.5 million, which would be significantly higher in today’s dollars when adjusted for inflation.