Chapter 26
Chapter 13: The Coup: PayPal, September 2000
Overview
In September 2000, internal power dynamics at PayPal shift as key figures including Peter Thiel, Max Levchin, and others jostle for control and direction of the company during a critical period in its early history.
Summary
This chapter covers the pivotal moment when control of PayPal changed hands during September 2000. The company faced critical decisions about its direction and leadership, with key figures including Peter Thiel, Max Levchin, Luke Nosek, Ken Howery, David Sacks, Keith Rope, Reid Hoffman, and Roelof Botha playing significant roles in the internal power dynamics. The period marked a turning point in the company's organizational structure and future strategy, establishing patterns that would define PayPal's trajectory and the careers of those involved.
Characters
- Peter ThielKey player in the power shift at PayPal
- Max LevchinImportant figure in PayPal's leadership during this period
- Luke NosekPayPal insider involved in the organizational changes
- Ken HoweryPayPal team member during the September 2000 restructuring
- David SacksPayPal employee involved in the leadership changes
- Keith RopePayPal team member during this period
- Reid HoffmanPayPal figure involved in the September 2000 dynamics
- Roelof BothaPayPal member during the leadership transition
- Michael MoritzInvestor or advisor influencing PayPal's direction