This case traces the rise of John F. Kennedy from a wealthy family in Boston to president of the United States. The case describes how Kennedy, as a young man, lived a privileged life in the shadow of his older brother, Joe. When Joe was killed in World War II, Jack was thrust into politics, first running for a seat in the House of Representatives then as a senator for Massachusetts. As the youngest U.S. president in history, the case chronicles his rise to power, the changes he instituted as president, and his role in defusing the Cuban missile crisis. The case ends with JFK's legacy after he was assassinated at age 46.
This case traces the rise of Jackie Robinson from the poor streets of Pasadena, California to one of the most famous people in America after he overturned the color barrier in baseball. The case describes how as a youth he excelled at basketball, football, baseball, and tennis. As a minor league baseball player, he was approached by the manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers to step on the field as the first Black player in major league baseball. His bravery and grace in the face of taunts and threats made him an inspiration and role model for millions. Later in life, he became an entrepreneur and social activist. Students will learn how Jackie Robinson navigated life's choices to leave a lasting impact on the world.
This case traces the rise of Mohandas Gandhi from his early days in British-controlled India to the inspirational martyr who, through personal deprivation and leadership, inspired millions and became the catalyst for India to break away from Britain. The case describes how he trained to be a lawyer in Britain and then later dedicated his life to the service of others less fortunate. Students will learn how Mahatma Gandhi became famous as he navigated life's choices to leave a lasting impact on the world.
This case traces the life of Ayn Rand from Russia to Hollywood to New York City. The case describes how Rand fled communist Russia and, in reaction to the deprivations she experienced under communism, developed a philosophy idealizing free will and personal achievement. The case describes how she published her philosophy in popular novels that have sold more than 30 million copies and made her one of the most influential writers of the twentieth century. Students will learn how Ayn Rand navigated life's choices to leave a lasting impact on the world.
This case describes the life choices of Bill Wilson, the founder of Alcoholics Anonymous. A young man with tremendous potential, Wilson hit rock bottom as a drunk. An epiphany, coupled with his personal drive, led him to build a worldwide organization that has helped millions of people recover from alcohol addiction. Students will learn how he navigated life's choices to leave a lasting impact on the world.
This case describes the rise of Sarah Breedlove, who later called herself Madam C.J. Walker, from the cotton fields of Louisiana to the head of a successful, nationwide beauty company providing opportunity and hair care products to Black women. The case describes how Breedlove started her business, recruited sales agents, and built a strong customer base across the United States. Students will learn how Sarah Breedlove navigated life's choices to leave a lasting impact on the world.
This case describes the rise of Cassius Clay, who later called himself Muhammad Ali, from the poor streets of Louisville, Kentucky to international fame. The case describes how Ali won a gold medal in the Olympics, three heavyweight boxing titles, and became a role model for millions. Students will learn how Muhammad Ali navigated life's choices to leave a lasting impact on the world.