February 27

Thomas Hazlehurst was born in 1779 in Warrington, England. He established Hazlehurst & Sons, which became one of the foremost soap and alkali manufacturing firms of the Industrial Revolution. Under his leadership, the company expanded its operations and reputation across northwest England. Hazlehurst emphasized innovation in production processes and built a strong family enterprise. He remained active in business until his death in 1842, leaving a lasting legacy in British industry.

Alvan Tufts Fuller was an American businessman who built a successful automobile agency before entering politics. As Governor of Massachusetts from 1925 to 1929, he oversaw economic growth and infrastructure development. Fuller played a controversial role in the Sacco and Vanzetti case, reviewing the trial and clemency appeals. After leaving public office, he continued to influence state politics and civic affairs. His tenure reflected the complexities of law, business, and public service in the Roaring Twenties.

David Sarnoff was a visionary American businessman who transformed radio and television broadcasting. He served as the first general manager of RCA and later its chairman and president. Under his leadership, RCA introduced the first all-electronic television system. Sarnoff played a key role in the development of NBC, establishing the first nationwide radio network. He championed FM radio and color television technology. His foresight shaped the modern communications industry. Sarnoff's legacy includes major contributions to broadcast standards and practices.

He served as an officer in the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry during World War II, participating in key campaigns. He demonstrated leadership and bravery on the front lines and was decorated with the Distinguished Service Order and the Order of the British Empire. After the war, he continued his passion for sports as a football player at the national level. He then transitioned into the business world, holding executive positions in Canadian companies. Whitaker's diverse career exemplified dedication both on the battlefield and in civilian life.

Aira Samulin was a celebrated Finnish dancer and businesswoman. Born in Sääksmäki, Finland, she trained in ballet and modern dance. In the 1950s, she toured internationally, showcasing Finnish performance art. After returning home, she founded several dance schools and cultural enterprises, expanding arts education across Finland. She leveraged her creative vision to launch successful businesses in fashion and entertainment. Samulin was recognized for her contributions to Finnish culture and entrepreneurship until her death in 2023.

David Young, Baron Young of Graffham, began his career in advertising before entering politics. He was created a life peer in 1984 and served in various ministerial roles under Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. As Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills from 1987 to 1990, he championed deregulation and support for small businesses. Young was known for his pragmatic approach to economic policy and his advocacy for entrepreneurship. After leaving government, he held leadership positions in several corporations and non-profit organizations. He authored books on business and politics, sharing his insights with a broader audience. Young's blend of corporate experience and public service defined his influential career in both sectors.

Born in 1967 in London, England, Sir Jonathan 'Jony' Ive studied industrial design at Newcastle Polytechnic. He joined Apple in 1992 and led the design of iconic products such as the iMac, iPod, iPhone, and iPad. Ive's minimalist aesthetic and focus on user experience revolutionized consumer electronics. Knighted in 2012 for services to design and enterprise, he later co-founded the creative firm LoveFrom. His work has had a profound influence on modern industrial design and popular culture.

Born in 1971 in Clearwater, Florida, Sara Blakely graduated with a degree in communications from Florida State University. After selling fax machines door-to-door, she invented Spanx shapewear with just $5,000 in savings in 2000. Under her leadership as CEO, Spanx grew into a global brand, revolutionizing the undergarment industry. Blakely has been featured on Forbes' lists of wealthiest self-made women and received numerous awards for entrepreneurship. She launched the Sara Blakely Foundation, supporting women's education and empowerment worldwide. Blakely's innovative spirit and philanthropic endeavors inspire aspiring entrepreneurs across the globe.