But the kung fu craze in the U.S. was jump-started by the release of the martial arts film “ Five Fingers of Death ” in March of 1973.

Here are just a few of the greatest achievements in kung fu. “Enter the Dragon” (1973) When I think of kung fu movies, the first name that comes to mind is always going to be Bruce Lee.

But around 1973 the martial arts--and kung fu in particular--belted their way into the mainstream of American pop culture with the premiere of the television series "Kung Fu." ...

Thirteen items belonging to the late kung fu legend Bruce Lee, including a hand-written letter and a fur-lined coat, are set to go under the hammer in Hong Kong at the weekend.