Get the Summary of Fred E Basten's Max Factor in 20 minutes. Please note: This is a summary & not the original book. "Max Factor" by Fred E Basten chronicles the life of Max Factor, born in Poland in 1877, who rose from a cosmetician in Russia to a makeup mogul in America. Max's early exposure to theater and his apprenticeship in cosmetics set the foundation for his future success. Despite thriving as a makeup artist for the Russian imperial family, he felt trapped and longed for freedom due to the oppressive regime and anti-Semitism. Max's daring escape to America with his family led him to the St. Louis World's Fair, where he introduced his products. After personal setbacks, including his wife's death and a divorce, Max's fascination with the film industry prompted a move to Los Angeles. There, he innovated makeup suitable for film, creating the flexible greasepaint and later Pan-Cake makeup for Technicolor films. Max Factor's legacy continued through his children, particularly Max Factor Jr., who furthered the company's success in television makeup and international expansion. The Max Factor Beauty Museum in Hollywood preserves his contributions to the beauty industry, while his great-grandsons carry on the family tradition in cosmetics. Max Factor's story is a testament to his impact on Hollywood glamour and the global cosmetics market.