đź“ś History & Culture

History's Dumbest Decisions

Napoleon invading Russia in winter. Blockbuster passing on buying Netflix for $50 million. The guy who sold his Apple shares in 1976. Explore the spectacularly bad calls that changed history — and laugh while you learn what NOT to do.

Beginner 6 lessons ~30 min 0 enrolled 5 quiz questions/lesson
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Course Content

6 lessons with quizzes

1

Introduction

An overview of the study of historically poor strategic choices and their pedagogical value.

2 sections
2

Napoleon’s Invasion of Russia (1812)

A critical examination of Napoleon’s 1812 Russian campaign and its catastrophic winter retreat.

2 sections
3

Blockbuster’s Decision Not to Acquire Netflix (2000)

Analysis of Blockbuster’s refusal to purchase Netflix for $50 million and its long‑term repercussions.

2 sections
4

Early Sale of Apple Shares (1976)

Exploration of the investor who sold Apple stock in 1976, forfeiting future gains.

2 sections
5

Kodak’s Delay in Embracing Digital Photography

Assessment of Kodak’s strategic inertia regarding digital camera technology and its market decline.

2 sections
6

Conclusion: Lessons from Historical Missteps

Synthesis of key insights derived from the examined poor decisions and their applicability to modern strategy.

2 sections