One of the top racing car drivers in the USA in the early 20th century, Earl Cooper was known for relying on a methodical approach rather than on raw speed. Cooper was the AAA's National Champion in 1913, 1915, and 1917. Although he won many races, he never won the Indianapolis 500. He drove in the race eight times, and his best finish was second place in 1924. In that year's race, Cooper led for much of the race, but he was overtaken by eventual winner Joe Boyer with fewer than 25 laps remaining. Cooper was one of the racers who was featured in The Speed Kings (1913).