January 25

William Colgate (1783–1857) was an English-American businessman and philanthropist who established a starch, soap, and candle business in New York that later evolved into the global company Colgate-Palmolive. Starting as a small storefront in Manhattan in 1806, Colgate built a reputation for quality hygiene products. He expanded manufacturing capacity and distribution, pioneering branded consumer goods marketing. A devout Baptist, he supported religious and educational institutions, leaving substantial bequests. Colgate's entrepreneurial vision set the foundation for one of the world's leading consumer goods corporations.

Charles Reed Bishop was an American entrepreneur who became a leading figure in the Hawaiian Kingdom's economy. He married into Hawaiian royalty and used his wealth to support local education and culture. In 1889 he founded the Bishop Museum in Honolulu to preserve Hawaiian artifacts and natural history. A dedicated philanthropist, he donated funds to schools, hospitals, and churches across the islands. His enduring legacy is the museum, which remains the premier institution for Pacific culture and history research.

Kokichi Mikimoto was a Japanese businessman and inventor who revolutionized the pearl industry by developing cultured pearl techniques. In 1893 he succeeded in growing the first round cultured pearls, making pearls accessible worldwide. He established the Mikimoto Pearl Company and opened a flagship boutique in Ginza, Tokyo. Mikimoto's innovations transformed pearls from rare gems to a global fashion staple. His dedication to quality and aesthetics set enduring standards in jewelry design and craftsmanship.