April 30

Founded by John and Horace Dodge in 1914, Dodge Brothers quickly became known for its reliable automobiles. On April 30, 1925, the company agreed to a sale to Dillon, Read & Co. for $146 million, plus an additional $50 million earmarked for charitable purposes. This transaction reflected the rapid consolidation occurring in the automotive industry during the Roaring Twenties. The sale provided the Dodge family with substantial wealth and influenced the firm's future strategy under new ownership. It also underscored the growing importance of financial institutions in shaping industrial corporations. The legacy of Dodge Brothers endured through its subsequent integration into Chrysler Corporation.

Amid plummeting sales and tightening credit markets, Chrysler sought Chapter 11 protection in a U.S. bankruptcy court in Michigan. The U.S. government provided loan guarantees to support the automaker's restructuring plan. As part of bankruptcy proceedings, Chrysler formed a strategic partnership with Italy's Fiat to share technology and platforms. By mid-2009, the company emerged leaner, with ownership divided between the U.S. Treasury, Canadian auto funds, and Fiat. The restructuring preserved thousands of jobs and stabilized supplier networks. This landmark case demonstrated the federal government's resolve to rescue critical industries during economic downturns. Chrysler's revival under Fiat-infused leadership reshaped its global business prospects.