Measure of a Man

What's "Measure of a Man: From Auschwitz Survivor to Presidents' Tailor" about?

• Survival and Success: The book is an autobiography of Martin Greenfield, detailing his journey from surviving Auschwitz to becoming a renowned tailor for U.S. presidents and celebrities.
• Historical Context: It provides a firsthand account of the Holocaust, offering insights into the horrors of concentration camps and the resilience required to survive.
• Career Journey: The narrative follows Greenfield's career trajectory, highlighting his rise in the fashion industry and his work with high-profile clients.
• Personal Growth: It explores themes of identity, family, and the pursuit of the American Dream, showcasing Greenfield's transformation and achievements.

Why should I read "Measure of a Man"?

• Inspiring Story: The book offers an inspiring tale of overcoming unimaginable adversity and achieving success against all odds.
• Historical Insight: It provides a personal perspective on the Holocaust, enriching the reader's understanding of this historical period.
• Fashion Industry Insights: Readers interested in fashion will gain insights into the tailoring industry and the art of crafting bespoke suits.
• Life Lessons: The book imparts valuable lessons on resilience, perseverance, and the importance of family and community.

What are the key takeaways of "Measure of a Man"?

• Resilience and Determination: Greenfield's story exemplifies the power of resilience and determination in overcoming life's challenges.
• Importance of Craftsmanship: The book highlights the significance of dedication to one's craft and the pursuit of excellence in any field.
• Value of Relationships: It underscores the importance of building strong relationships and networks, which played a crucial role in Greenfield's success.
• American Dream: Greenfield's journey is a testament to the opportunities available in America for those willing to work hard and seize them.

What are the best quotes from "Measure of a Man" and what do they mean?

• "Clothes don’t just 'make the man,' they can save the man." This quote reflects Greenfield's belief in the transformative power of clothing, both in terms of personal identity and professional success.
• "Produce quality with intrinsic value." This mantra from Greenfield's mentor emphasizes the importance of creating products that offer lasting value and quality.
• "I’m left with nothing but gratitude and joy for my life." This statement encapsulates Greenfield's appreciation for his journey and the opportunities he found in America.
• "The United States is the best damn country the world has ever known." This quote highlights Greenfield's deep love and gratitude for the opportunities and freedom he found in America.

How did Martin Greenfield survive Auschwitz?

• Family Separation: Greenfield was separated from his family upon arrival at Auschwitz, a traumatic event that marked the beginning of his survival journey.
• Work Assignments: He was assigned various labor tasks, including working in the laundry and sorting room, which kept him alive by making him useful to the Nazis.
• Resourcefulness: Greenfield's ability to adapt and learn quickly, such as sewing a Nazi shirt to gain favor, played a crucial role in his survival.
• Mental Resilience: Despite the horrors, Greenfield maintained hope and a will to live, which helped him endure the camp's brutal conditions.

How did Martin Greenfield become a tailor for U.S. presidents?

• Starting at GGG: After arriving in America, Greenfield began working at GGG, a prestigious suit manufacturer, where he honed his tailoring skills.
• Mentorship: He was mentored by William P. Goldman, who recognized his talent and helped him rise through the ranks.
• Building a Reputation: Greenfield's dedication to quality and craftsmanship earned him a reputation, leading to opportunities to dress high-profile clients.
• Presidential Clients: His work eventually caught the attention of U.S. presidents, starting with Dwight D. Eisenhower, and continued with others like Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.

What challenges did Martin Greenfield face in America?

• Language Barrier: Upon arrival, Greenfield struggled with English, which he overcame by taking night classes and immersing himself in the language.
• Cultural Adjustment: Adapting to American culture and customs was a challenge, but Greenfield embraced the opportunities and freedoms available.
• Career Development: Building a career in a new country required perseverance and the ability to seize opportunities in the fashion industry.
• Emotional Struggles: Greenfield dealt with the trauma of his past and the loss of his family while trying to build a new life.

What role did mentorship play in Martin Greenfield's success?

• Guidance from William P. Goldman: Goldman's mentorship was pivotal, providing Greenfield with opportunities to learn and grow in the tailoring industry.
• Learning the Craft: Mentors at GGG taught Greenfield the intricacies of suit-making, which became the foundation of his career.
• Business Acumen: Mentorship helped Greenfield understand the business side of fashion, including customer relations and quality control.
• Personal Development: Mentors also supported Greenfield's personal growth, helping him navigate challenges and build confidence.

How did Martin Greenfield's experiences shape his views on life and success?

• Value of Hard Work: Greenfield's journey reinforced the importance of hard work and dedication in achieving success.
• Resilience and Adaptability: His survival and career taught him the value of resilience and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Gratitude and Humility: Despite his success, Greenfield remains grateful for the opportunities he received and the people who helped him along the way.
• Commitment to Quality: His experiences instilled a commitment to producing high-quality work and maintaining high standards in his craft.

What impact did Martin Greenfield have on the fashion industry?

• Innovative Techniques: Greenfield introduced innovative tailoring techniques that enhanced the quality and fit of men's suits.
• High-Profile Clientele: His work with celebrities and politicians elevated the status of bespoke tailoring in the fashion industry.
• Mentorship and Training: Greenfield trained and mentored many young tailors, passing on his skills and knowledge to the next generation.
• Legacy of Excellence: His commitment to quality and craftsmanship set a standard in the industry, influencing how suits are made and perceived.

How did Martin Greenfield's personal life influence his professional journey?

• Family Values: The loss of his family during the Holocaust motivated Greenfield to build a strong family and community in America.
• Cultural Heritage: His Jewish heritage and experiences during the Holocaust influenced his values and work ethic.
• Supportive Relationships: Greenfield's relationships with mentors, colleagues, and clients provided support and opportunities throughout his career.
• Balancing Personal and Professional Life: Greenfield's dedication to his family and career exemplifies the balance he sought between personal fulfillment and professional success.

What lessons can readers learn from "Measure of a Man"?

• Overcoming Adversity: Greenfield's story teaches the power of resilience and determination in overcoming life's challenges.
• Pursuit of Excellence: The book emphasizes the importance of dedication to one's craft and the pursuit of excellence in any field.
• Value of Relationships: It highlights the significance of building strong relationships and networks, which played a crucial role in Greenfield's success.
• Embracing Opportunities: Greenfield's journey is a testament to the opportunities available in America for those willing to work hard and seize them.