Lazarus

Genuinely came back from the brink. Was in the grave or at the edge of it, now thriving.

5 companies

1908–2009 · revived 2010 · Automotive

Too big to fail, too proud to change, too important to let die.

1932–2003 · revived 2005 · Toys

Almost killed by theme parks, clothing lines, and everything that wasn't a brick.

1976–1997 · revived 2001 · Technology

Ninety days from bankruptcy. Then it became the most valuable company in human history.

1939–1996 · revived 2009 · Entertainment

Spider-Man, the X-Men, and the Avengers filed for bankruptcy. Then they conquered the world.

1903–1981 · revived 1983 · Automotive

AMF nearly killed it. Thirteen employees bought it back for $80 million and saved an American icon.