Skip to main content

The real origin of the franchise - Sir Harold Evans

217,820 Views

25,125 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

One of the most successful business models is the franchise, but it didn't originate with McDonald's. Sir Harold Evans describes the remarkable story of a beauty salon that allowed hundreds of women to own their own businesses.

Martha Harper was sent away at age seven by her father to work as a domestic servant, her profession for 25 years until she saved enough money to start her own business. Can you think of another entrepreneur or public figure with a similar rags-to-riches story?

Sign in to answer question

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Sir Harold Evans
  • Animator Sunni Brown
  • Narrator Sir Harold Evans

More from Inventions that Shape History