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  • June 2009
  • Case
  • HBS Case Collection

The Rise of President Barack Hussein Obama

By: David A. Thomas, Laura Morgan Roberts and Stephanie Creary
  • Format:Print
  • | Pages:29
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Abstract

This case profiles President Barack Hussein Obama's rise to the presidency as an "improbable candidate." The case illustrates the ways in which he overcame criticism from those who questioned his credibility and his values, and skepticism from those who were unsure whether America was ready to elect its first African American President. It also explores how President Obama was able to gain support from the American people despite lagging behind Senator Hillary Clinton, the presumed Democratic frontrunner, throughout much of the pre-primary period.

Keywords

Ethnicity; Race; Political Elections; Leadership; Personal Development and Career; Creativity; Trust

Citation

Thomas, David A., Laura Morgan Roberts, and Stephanie Creary. "The Rise of President Barack Hussein Obama." Harvard Business School Case 409-115, June 2009.
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About The Author

David A. Thomas

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More from the Authors
  • Getting Serious About Diversity: Enough Already with the Business Case By: Robin Ely and David A. Thomas
  • Success Comes From Affirming Your Potential By: Laura Morgan Roberts and Anthony Mayo
  • Toward a Racially Just Workplace: Diversity Efforts are Failing Black Employees. Here's a Better Approach By: Laura Morgan Roberts and Anthony Mayo
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