The Real Pepsi Challenge: Breaking the Color Barrier in American Business August 15, 2008

Years before the official Civil Rights Movement galvanized countless Americans, the Pepsi Corporation boldly took steps to integrate corporate America from as early as 1940. Based on Stephanie Capparell's groundbreaking book, 'The Real Pepsi Challenge: The Inspirational Story of Breaking the Color Barrier in American Business,' this exhibit showcases the plight of the first African-Americans to hold professional corporate jobs in this country. Pepsi-Cola CEO Walter S. Mack heeded the call of the black leadership of the day and hired an all-black sales team to sell his cola to American blacks.