March 04

Born in 1852 in Columbus, Georgia, Peabody built a successful banking career in New York City. He became a philanthropist known for supporting education, the arts, and social welfare programs. Peabody founded the Peabody Education Fund in 1867 to aid schools in the Reconstruction-era South. He established the George Foster Peabody Awards to honor excellence in broadcasting. His generous endowments benefited institutions such as Harvard, Yale, and the Hampton Institute. Peabody’s legacy endures through awards and foundations that continue promoting quality and integrity.

Born in 1881 in Russia, Nicholas Schenck emigrated to the United States as a child and entered the film industry in the early 1900s. As president of Loew's Inc. from 1935 to 1955, he oversaw Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer's rise to prominence, managing stars, production, and distribution at the height of the studio system. Known for his sharp business acumen and low public profile, he navigated the company through the Great Depression and World War II. Schenck's strategic leadership defined Hollywood's Golden Age, leaving a legacy of blockbuster films and industry practices still studied today. He died on March 4, 1969.

Born in Oklahoma in 1909, Wesley Bolin moved to Arizona as a child and embarked on a lifelong career in public service. He served in both chambers of the Arizona Legislature and spent decades as Secretary of State, becoming the longest-serving in that role. In 1977, Bolin ascended to the governorship, becoming Arizona's 15th governor. He advocated for education, public infrastructure, and economic development during his brief tenure. Bolin died in office in 1978, after just five months as governor. Today, he is commemorated by the Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza in Phoenix, honoring his dedication to the state.

Born in 1912 in England, Alan Hardaker commissioned as a lieutenant in the British Army during World War II. After his military service, he transitioned to the business sector, where he held executive roles in various companies. Known for his strategic thinking and disciplined leadership, he guided organizations through post-war economic challenges. Hardaker also remained active in veteran affairs, supporting former service members. His dual career bridged the realms of military service and commerce. He passed away in 1980, remembered for his commitment to both his country and the business community.

Jim Rhodes (1909-2001) was an American businessman turned politician who built a successful career in insurance and real estate before entering public service. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and later won election as Ohio's governor for four terms (1963-1971, 1975-1983), focusing on economic development and infrastructure expansion. Under his leadership, Ohio saw significant investments in highways, education, and industry, earning him both praise and controversy. Rhodes's handling of the Kent State protests in 1970 remains a debated chapter of his tenure. After leaving office, he remained active in politics and civic affairs, leaving a lasting impact on Ohio's growth and governance.

After emigrating to the United States following World War II, Cahn and her husband acquired a small leather workshop in New York in 1941. She introduced design innovations and a focus on quality craftsmanship that transformed the business into the brand Coach. Under her guidance, the company developed iconic leather handbags that combined practicality with style. Cahn also championed philanthropic efforts in the arts and conservation. Her pioneering role in luxury accessories established Coach as a global fashion leader. Her legacy continues to influence the industry today.

Born in 1960, Smith moved to Japan in the early 1980s to pursue his passion for manga. In 1986, he established Studio Proteus to license and translate Japanese comics for English readers. Smith negotiated groundbreaking deals with major Japanese publishers, bringing titles like Akira and Ghost in the Shell to North America. His meticulous translation work preserved the originals' tone and cultural nuances. Smith's efforts helped spark the Western manga boom of the 1990s and inspired a generation of fans and translators. He passed away in 2013, leaving a legacy as a pioneer in international comics publishing.