The Brawl in IBM 1964

The Brawl in IBM 1964 by Joseph Fox, published by CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform on January 26, 2012, is a detailed account of a pivotal moment in the history of IBM. This 314-page book explores the complexities surrounding the Federal Aviation Administration’s procurement process following two mid-air collisions in 1956 and 1960. The narrative centers on a marketing manager with limited experience who finds himself at the helm of a crucial proposal for a new line of computers, the IBM 360, amidst internal chaos and executive turmoil.

Readers will find an in-depth examination of the challenges faced by IBM’s technical and marketing teams as they navigate the pressures of a high-stakes environment. The story unfolds over a grueling 60-day period in Poughkeepsie, New York, where various executives, including the future chairman and the president of IBM, become embroiled in the decision-making process. The book delves into the interplay of finance and legal considerations, highlighting the intricate dynamics of corporate strategy and innovation during a transformative era in technology.