On April 8, 1974, Hank Aaron hit his 715th career home run, surpassing Babe Ruth to claim the all-time record.

Playing against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Aaron sent a pitch from Al Downing over the left field fence, sending the Atlanta Braves crowd into a frenzy. As Aaron rounded the bases, the outfield scoreboard flashed 715 in big lettering, and two crazed fans even ran onto the field to congratulate him.

For Aaron, it was a career achievement that came in the face of death threats he had suffered all winter long. Racist fans were incensed that an African-American was likely to break Ruth's record, to the extent that Aaron feared for his life.

Fortunately, no harm ever befell Aaron. He went on to hit 755 home runs in his career, a mark that stood until 2007, when Barry Bonds surpassed him. Bonds currently holds the record with 762 bombs.

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