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  • February 2021
  • Case
  • HBS Case Collection

Sarah Breedlove: Changing the World

By: Robert L. Simons and Max Saffer
  • Format:Print
  • | Language:English
  • | Pages:16
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Abstract

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.

Keywords

Brands; Entrepreneurship; Values And Beliefs; Personal Characteristics; Success; Work-life Balance; Business Startups; Brands And Branding; Marketing; Personal Development And Career; Beauty And Cosmetics Industry

Citation

Simons, Robert L., and Max Saffer. "Sarah Breedlove: Changing the World." Harvard Business School Case 121-060, February 2021.
  • Educators

About The Author

Robert Simons

Accounting and Management
→More Publications

More from the Authors

    • March 2021
    • Faculty Research

    Bill Wilson: Changing the World

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    • March 2021
    • Faculty Research

    Mary Kay Ash: Changing the World

    By: Robert Simons and Shirley Sun
    • March 2021
    • Faculty Research

    James Bryant Conant: Changing the World

    By: Robert L. Simons and Shirley Sun
More from the Authors
  • Bill Wilson: Changing the World By: Robert L. Simons and Max Saffer
  • Mary Kay Ash: Changing the World By: Robert Simons and Shirley Sun
  • James Bryant Conant: Changing the World By: Robert L. Simons and Shirley Sun
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