The man who brought Intel to China and Mao threw into prison. Twice! - Sidney Rittenberg

USC IBEAR Business Class

Sidney Rittenberg led an exceptional life. He tumbled into the swirling waters of history as the communist revolution swept Mao into power. He was a friend of Mao. He was also a prisoner of Mao. Twice. He spent sixteen years in solitary confinement, six years thanks to Josef Stalin, and ten years courtesy of the Cultural Revolution. Somehow he rebounded and started a consulting business that brought companies such as Intel, Levis and Microsoft into China. Throughout these events and efforts he was always observing and thinking. We go back to a 2014 interview with Sidney and talk about the amazing situations he navigated. We also hear his thoughts on power and the people who wield it. Sidney Rittenberg passed away at the age of 98 and in this episode of Business Class we salute and remember his life.