January 23

Born in 1725 in County Kildare, Arthur Guinness started as a brewer in his early twenties. In 1759, he signed a 9,000-year lease for the St. James's Gate Brewery in Dublin, laying the foundation for the iconic Guinness brand. Under his guidance, the brewery perfected the rich, dark stout that would become a global symbol of Irish heritage. Guinness was known for his business acumen and philanthropic efforts in his community. Today, the brewery continues to honor his legacy, operating as one of the world's largest and most renowned breweries.

Born in 1948 in New York City, Alexander Onassis was the only son of billionaire Aristotle Onassis. Groomed to manage the family's shipping empire, he took on leadership roles in global maritime operations. His tenure saw the expansion of the Onassis fleet, navigating complex international trade routes. Onassis's promising career ended tragically in a plane crash at age 24 on January 23, 1973. His death triggered a succession crisis in the Onassis dynasty and captivated public attention worldwide. He is remembered for his potential as a business leader and the enduring mystique of his famous family.

Born in New York City, Toots Shor opened the famed Toots Shor's Restaurant in 1940, which became a hotspot for celebrities, athletes, and politicians. Known for his charismatic personality and loyal clientele, Shor cultivated an atmosphere of camaraderie and exclusivity. He regularly entertained patrons with his witty banter and generous hospitality. His restaurant marked the cultural landscape of mid-20th-century New York and influenced the city's dining scene. Despite its eventual closure in 1959, Toots Shor's legacy lives on as a symbol of Old New York glamour. Shor's impact on hospitality continues to inspire restaurateurs worldwide.

Born in Chicago in 1922, Jay Pritzker was a visionary businessman who transformed a single hotel into the global Hyatt brand. After graduating from Northwestern University School of Law, he and his brother purchased their first property in 1957. Under his leadership, Hyatt expanded rapidly to over 100 properties worldwide, setting new standards in hospitality. Pritzker was also a dedicated philanthropist, supporting education, the arts, and environmental conservation. He served on numerous corporate and nonprofit boards and was known for his hands-on management style. His legacy endures through the ongoing success of the Hyatt Corporation and his family’s charitable foundations.

Bingham Ray was a pioneering figure in the independent film industry, co-founding October Films in 1991 to support and distribute innovative cinema. He championed emerging directors and risk-taking projects, helping bring cult favorites and award-winning films to audiences. After October’s success, Ray became president of United Artists and later worked with Paramount Classics and Fox Searchlight. Known for his keen eye and collaborative spirit, he nurtured the careers of filmmakers like Todd Haynes and Ang Lee. Ray’s devotion to artistry over formula reshaped the landscape of indie film distribution. He passed away suddenly in 2012, leaving a lasting impact on the movie business.