How did the term Gordon Bennett originate?

Question

I find myself using this term everytime I am frustrated or exasperated with a someone or something!

I'd like to know how it came about and If Gordon Bennett was actually a real person.

Thank you.

Answer 1

James Gordon Bennet II, 1841 - 1918 is the man referred to, and was quite a colourful character. One of his many reported exploits was an incident where he flew an aeroplane through an open barn. The surprised onlookers were supposed to have said 'That was Gordon Bennett!', and hence onward to the current shortened phrase. Became popular again during the 1980s but is again falling out of use.