Peabody, Massachusetts

Jack Welch was born here on November 19, 1935. His mother was 36 and his father 41 at the time.

Salem, Massachusetts

Jack's parents buy their first house here, on 15 Lovett Street, in an Irish working-class section of town. Jack is 9 years old.

Pickering Grammar School

Jack attended elementary school here. At 12, Jack is a quarterback on a six-man football team that wins the championship. He isn't fast, but he has a good passing arm. He also pitches a sweeping curveball and sharp drop on Pickering's baseball team.

Salem High School

This is the high school Jack attends and from which he graduates in 1953. He plays ball, is senior class treasurer, and is captain of the hockey team.

ROTC

Jack and two high school friends take the exam to receive a free, four-year naval ROTC college scholarship. All three pass the initial exam, submit the recommendation letters, and are interviewed...