Meet John Doe Timeline ( Real )

film_release
April 7, 1941

Release of 'Meet John Doe'

The film 'Meet John Doe' directed by Frank Capra was released to the public.

Meet John Doe Timeline ( Fictional )

letter
Early December 1938

Ann Mitchell writes angry letter

Ann Mitchell, a down-and-out woman, writes a heartfelt letter to the editor expressing her frustration with society and her struggles, claiming she will commit suicide on Christmas Day.

media
Shortly after early December 1938

Newspaper publishes Ann's letter

The Liberty newspaper publishes Ann's letter, sparking public interest and sympathy.

media
Mid December 1938

Editor D.B. Norton assigns reporter to find 'John Doe'

Editor D.B. Norton instructs his reporter, Ann Mitchell, to find a man to impersonate the fictional John Doe to capitalize on the letter's popularity.

character_event
Mid December 1938

Dale Johnson agrees to impersonate John Doe

Dale Johnson, a homeless man, agrees to become the public persona of John Doe, the supposed author of the letter.

campaign
Late December 1938

John Doe campaign begins

Liberty newspaper starts the John Doe campaign, organizing public meetings and promoting John Doe's message of hope and reform.

media
Late December 1938 to Early January 1939

John Doe becomes a national sensation

John Doe's speeches and public appearances inspire people across the country, gaining mass media attention.

character_event
January 1939

Ann Mitchell and Dale Johnson grow close

Ann and Dale develop a complicated personal relationship as they work together on the John Doe campaign.

conflict
January 1939

Editor Norton reveals his true intentions

D.B. Norton attempts to exploit the John Doe movement for political gain, pushing a conservative agenda to influence upcoming elections.

conflict
February 1939

John Doe plans to reveal the truth

Disillusioned with Norton's manipulation, Dale Johnson plans to expose the truth about the John Doe campaign to the public.

character_event
February 1939

Dale Johnson's attempted suicide

Facing pressure and betrayal, Dale attempts to take his own life but survives, prompting Ann to help him.

climax
Liberty Day, February 22, 1939

John Doe reappears at final rally

Dale returns to public life to deliver a powerful speech at the Liberty Day rally, uniting people with hope and honesty.

resolution
Liberty Day, February 22, 1939

John Doe's true identity revealed

Dale publicly admits he is not the original John Doe but pledges commitment to the movement's ideals.