Tom Landry was born on September 11th, 1924 in Mission, Texas. His parents were Christians, but they didn't really focus on teaching him the Word. As a child he was shy, probably because of his speech impediment, nevertheless he did very well in school. He also enjoyed all sports, but excelled in football. This undoubtedly led to his love for pro football.
After several years of having an outstanding record as a player, he decided to take on the job of coaching the Dallas Cowboys. He led them to many playoffs and Super Bowls. Even though he had an excellent record and held the job for twenty-nine yeas, he became involved in a political controversy. Jerry Jones, coach of a Florida college team, bought the team on February 25, 1989 and fired Tom Landry. Jerry Jones named himself head coach but the team was never the same after that.
Tom Landry's life really was significant to people across America, because he was so upstanding. He was greatly admired and in remembrance of him, Dallas made "
Tom Landry
Day" on April 22. In 1990 he was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
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