Ridiculous History CLASSIC: Adidas Versus Puma: A Tale of Two Brothers
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Mar 1, 2025 In this engaging discussion, guest producer Matt Stillo shines a light on the tumultuous history of Adidas and Puma, founded by the Dossler brothers, Rudolph and Adolf. Their rivalry transformed the sneaker market, sparked by personal disputes and World War II tensions. The podcast dives into the impact of Jesse Owens's endorsement, which revolutionized sports marketing but further divided the brothers. Listeners will enjoy tales of legal battles and the cultural implications that followed, unveiling how family feuds shaped a global industry.
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The Dassler Brothers' Shoe Company
- The Dassler brothers, Adi and Rudy, started a shoe company in Herzogenaurach, Germany after WWI.
- Adi, the younger brother, was the creative inventor, while Rudy focused on business and sales.
Jesse Owens and the 1936 Olympics
- Jesse Owens wore Dassler shoes in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, winning four gold medals.
- This boosted the company's international recognition, attracting athletes from all over Europe.
Strained Relationship and Wartime Tensions
- The brothers' success strained their relationship, worsened by their wives' constant fighting and differing personalities.
- World War II further exacerbated their tensions, leading to a major falling out during an air raid.