March 18

Henry Simpson Lunn was an English businessman born in 1859, credited with founding one of Britain's first package holiday companies. Originally a Methodist minister, he recognized the health benefits of alpine travel and organized group tours to the Alps. Lunn's innovations in travel planning led to the establishment of the Lunn Poly agency, revolutionizing tourism by offering inclusive transport, accommodation, and guides. He later expanded operations to Mediterranean destinations. Lunn was also active in religious and charitable work, promoting international understanding. His travel model became the blueprint for modern tourism agencies.

William C. Durant was a pioneering American entrepreneur who revolutionized the automotive industry. He co-founded General Motors in 1908 and later Chevrolet in 1911, shaping the mass production of cars. Under his leadership, GM grew rapidly and introduced innovative marketing and financing strategies. Despite early successes, he faced financial challenges and was forced out of GM in 1910 and again in 1920. Durant later attempted several ventures including Durant Motors, demonstrating his enduring vision. His legacy endures in the automotive giants he helped create and the modern motorcar culture he inspired.

Sigfrid Edström was a Swedish engineer and industrial leader who rose to prominence in the electrical industry. He began his career at ASEA, where he played a key role in the company's international expansion. Elected the 4th President of the International Olympic Committee in 1942, he guided the Olympic Movement through World War II. Under his leadership, the Games resumed in 1948 in London, symbolizing a return to global unity. Edström advocated for amateurism and the Olympic ideals of fair play and international cooperation. His tenure strengthened the IOC's organizational structures and left a lasting impact on modern Olympic governance.

Adam Osborne was born in 1939 in Thailand and made his mark as a software engineer and author. In 1981, he founded Osborne Computer Corporation and launched the Osborne 1, the world's first commercially successful portable computer. The Osborne 1 revolutionized personal computing with its compact design and bundled software. Despite facing the 'Osborne effect' and company bankruptcy, his vision influenced the development of modern laptops. Osborne authored several technical books and contributed to computing education. He later founded other technology ventures and remained a respected industry innovator. He died in 2003, remembered as a trailblazer in computer hardware design.

Harrison McCain was born in 1927 in New Brunswick, Canada, into a family potato-farming business. In 1957, he and his siblings founded McCain Foods, specializing in frozen French fries. Under his leadership, the company expanded globally to become a leader in the frozen foods industry. McCain championed innovation in food processing and international marketing strategies. He supported community development and philanthropy, funding education and healthcare projects. McCain received numerous honors for his contributions to business and public service. He died in 2004, leaving a vast corporate legacy and a prominent Canadian brand.