Atlas Shrugged III: Who Is John Galt?

The passing of the owner of the 20th-century Motor Company marks a critical turning point for his children. This event sets off a chain of reactions as they adopt a controversial policy that prioritizes individual needs over merit-based salaries.

In response to the new policy, lab engineer John Galt declares, 'I'll stop the motor of the world.' His defiance embodies the struggle between individual achievement and the newly imposed ideology, signaling his pivotal role in the narrative.

Twelve years later, the United States faces a devastating economic crisis. Business leaders are mysteriously disappearing, contributing to an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty within the struggling economy.

Dagny Taggart, the determined executive of Taggart Transcontinental, is one of the latest business leaders to vanish. Her disappearance raises alarms as her desperate pursuit of John Galt leads to catastrophic consequences when her plane crashes.

After her plane crash, Dagny miraculously survives and discovers Galt's Gulch. There, she meets John Galt and a group of like-minded individuals who have chosen to retreat from a society that disenfranchises the gifted.

In Galt's Gulch, Dagny encounters notable figures such as Midas Mulligan and Ragnar Danneskjöld. They share their philosophies and criticisms of the government's oppressive regulations, emphasizing the importance of freedom and individualism.

While staying in Galt's Gulch, Dagny finds herself working as Galt's maid. This role symbolizes her internal struggle for independence as she engages deeply with Galt's innovative ideas, including a revolutionary motor design.

Despite her newfound insights, Dagny feels compelled to return to her company as the railroad system collapses around her. Her commitment to salvage what remains reflects her resilient spirit in the face of adversity.

In the outside world, the government implements 'Project F,' nationalizing railroads and further entrenching power over individual freedoms. Dagny faces fierce opposition, particularly from her brother James, who seeks to undermine her efforts.

As infrastructure falters and train movements cease, Dagny innovates a manual switching system. This critical development comes at a time when she and John rekindle their romance amidst the chaos of their surroundings.

Dagny's partner Hank Rearden vanishes, adding to the turmoil. His wife, Cherryl Taggart, grapples with shocking revelations about Hank’s deceit, ultimately leading her to take a tragic decision.

Taking advantage of escalating tensions, Galt courageously addresses the nation, challenging the government's central planning. His arguments resonate with the public, positioning him as a figure of hope and resistance.

As Galt's influence grows, the government discovers his connection with Dagny and arrests him. His subsequent torture under Project F highlights the extreme lengths to which the government will go to suppress individualism.

In the midst of societal collapse, Dagny and the allies from Galt's Gulch mobilize to rescue him from captivity. Their solidarity marks a critical moment in the struggle for freedom and against oppression.

The combined efforts of Galt's allies illustrate a burgeoning battle for individualism and freedom against a backdrop of societal unraveling. This struggle signals a pivotal change in the battle between collective control and personal achievement.