Coca-Cola

In this episode of Acquired, Ben and David delve into the history of Coca-Cola, starting from its origins as a patent medicine created by John Pemberton, a Civil War veteran addicted to morphine, to its rise as a global brand. They discuss key figures like Asa Candler and Robert Woodruff, pivotal moments such as the bottling deal, the New Coke debacle, and the Pepsi Challenge, and the company's innovative marketing strategies, including the association with Santa Claus and the use of lifestyle advertising. They also touch on Coca-Cola's role in World War II and its transformation into a total beverage company, analyzing its business model, competitive landscape, and the power dynamics within the Coca-Cola system.