March 21

Born in 1706 in Leipzig, Zedler established one of the largest universal encyclopedias of his time. He compiled and published the Grosses vollständiges Universal-Lexicon, spanning 68 volumes and thousands of entries. His work set new standards in encyclopedic scholarship and accessibility of knowledge. Zedler’s editorial rigor and vision influenced later reference works across Europe. He navigated financial and logistical challenges to complete his ambitious project by the time of his death in 1751.

Leo Fender was born in Anaheim, California, in 1909 and began building radios and amplifiers in his youth. In 1946, he founded Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, pioneering the electric guitar industry. Fender developed iconic models such as the Telecaster, Stratocaster, and Precision Bass, shaping the sound of rock, jazz, and pop music. Under his leadership, Fender became a global brand known for quality and innovation. He sold the company to CBS in 1965 but continued to consult and design new instruments. Fender’s creations remain standard tools for musicians worldwide. He passed away in 1991.

Born in 1915 in North Korea, Chung Ju-yung moved south during Korea’s division and established Hyundai Engineering and Construction in 1947. Under his leadership, Hyundai expanded into automotive manufacturing, shipbuilding, and heavy industries, becoming a global conglomerate. Chung’s vision for modernization and export-led growth helped transform South Korea into an industrial powerhouse. He served as a cultural ambassador, promoting Korean products and fostering international partnerships. His legacy endures through the Hyundai brand, which remains integral to the global automotive and engineering sectors.

Albrecht Dietz was born in 1926 and became a leading economist specializing in financial services in post-war Germany. He is widely credited as a pioneer of the modern leasing industry, founding one of the country’s first equipment leasing companies. Dietz combined academic research with business acumen to promote leasing as a strategic financial tool for industrial growth. He served as a professor at several universities, publishing influential works on banking and leasing. His leadership in both academia and industry helped shape financial practices across Europe. Dietz passed away in 2012, remembered for his dual legacy in economic theory and entrepreneurial innovation.

Born in Bratislava in 1923, Hochhauser fled to Britain during World War II and built a concert promotion empire. He founded the record label and promotion company bringing artists like the Vienna Philharmonic and Yehudi Menuhin to UK audiences. During the Cold War, he orchestrated historic performances in the Soviet Union, promoting cultural exchange. Hochhauser championed young talents, co-founding the London Festival and supporting British orchestras. Knighted for his contributions to music, he also received the CBE and multiple honorary degrees. His lifelong dedication to the arts reshaped concert promotion and fostered international goodwill.

George Foreman was an American professional boxer who became a two-time world heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist. Born in 1949 in Marshall, Texas, he won the heavyweight gold medal at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics before turning professional. Known for his powerful punching style, Foreman captured the world heavyweight title in 1973 and engaged in the famous 'Rumble in the Jungle' against Muhammad Ali in 1974. After retiring in 1977 and later returning to the ring, he regained the heavyweight title in 1994 at age 45, becoming the oldest champion in the division's history. Outside the ring, Foreman found tremendous success as an entrepreneur with the George Foreman Grill, selling over 100 million units worldwide. He also worked as an actor, minister, and motivational speaker, authoring books on fitness and personal development. His larger-than-life personality and business acumen made him a household name beyond boxing. Foreman passed away on March 21, 2025, and remains celebrated for both his athletic achievements and entrepreneurial spirit.