Context:

S. Daniel Abraham transformed a small family business into a leading weight-loss empire with renowned brands like Slim-Fast and Dexatrim. Initially, he capitalized on a $5,000 company purchase by his father, eventually creating a billion-dollar enterprise through innovative marketing and product development. Despite legal challenges, such as a lawsuit over Slim-Mint Gum, he persistently fought and won, which allowed him to further expand his business. Beyond his entrepreneurial success, Abraham was politically active, fostering relationships with influential leaders and supporting Middle East peace efforts. His later years were marked by both personal controversies and significant philanthropic contributions, leaving a complex legacy upon his passing at age 100.

Dive Deeper:

• S. Daniel Abraham was born in 1924 in Long Beach, N.Y., and, despite an indifferent academic career, displayed entrepreneurial spirit from a young age, notably running a small newspaper operation as a teenager. He served as an infantryman in Italy during World War II but was discharged due to poor eyesight, which led him to join his family's modest medical supply business post-war.

• In 1947, Abraham's entrepreneurial journey took a significant turn when his father purchased Thompson Medical Company for $5,000, a decision that Abraham would capitalize on by expanding the product line and pioneering the weight-loss industry with innovative products like Slim-Mint Gum and Slim-Fast.

• Slim-Fast, introduced in 1977, revolutionized the weight-loss industry by offering a simple meal replacement system, which gained immense popularity after significant endorsements, including one from Tommy Lasorda, the Los Angeles Dodgers manager, leading to a dramatic surge in sales.

• Abraham's career was not without controversy; he faced legal challenges over the safety of his products, such as a lawsuit involving the diet pill Appedrine, which was settled out of court. Despite these challenges, he remained a successful businessman, eventually selling his company to Unilever for $2.3 billion in 2000.

• Politically active, Abraham cultivated relationships with prominent figures like Bill and Hillary Clinton, advocating for Middle East peace. His later life was marked by personal controversies, including legal disputes over family trusts and allegations of sexual harassment. Despite these issues, his legacy as a pioneer in the weight-loss industry and his philanthropic efforts endured.