Bull Tiger Biographical Library · Giant Hundred -- Matsushita

Author: Chen Xunming
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1998-10-12
Features: The protagonist of this book, Konosuke Matsushita, is a true country bumpkin, a humble villager who rose from poverty to become respected in the big city. At the age of nine, when he left his hometown to become an apprentice and was thrilled by a monthly salary of ten copper coins, who could have imagined that he would later become incredibly wealthy, funding social organizations and government agencies with his money? When his body was frail, suffering from bedwetting and frequent diarrhea, who could have foreseen that he would live to be 94, remaining sharp and energetic until the very end? When he had not even finished fourth grade in elementary school, who could have predicted that he would not only start his career with inventions and creations but also write books, sharing his extraordinary insights on life? When he struggled as a day laborer, unable to move heavy cement, who could have imagined that he would become a distinguished guest of Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands and other heads of state and government leaders, even discussing major global issues with Japanese Prime Minister Tanaka Kakuei on a television program?
When Matsushita, at the peak of his company's prosperity, earnestly warned all employees that no matter how grand and strong a company may be, it is as fragile as a sweet pastry. When Japan, as an economic powerhouse, cried out that the nation was on the brink of collapse, was this not the perfect proof of his unwavering, country bumpkin-like clarity of mind and relentless spirit? After this remarkable country bumpkin became an outstanding city dweller, how long could his descendants maintain this honor?