May 01

Hanns Martin Schleyer was a prominent German industrialist who led the Confederation of German Employers' Associations and the Federation of German Industries. Born in 1915, he rebuilt his career after World War II, becoming a key figure in West Germany's economic resurgence. An early member of the Nazi SS in his youth, he later distanced himself from his past to champion a free-market economy. On September 5, 1977, Schleyer was abducted by the Red Army Faction, triggering the German Autumn crisis. After 43 days of captivity, he was murdered by his captors, a tragedy that shocked the nation and led to a hardening of German counterterrorism policies. Schleyer's legacy is complex, reflecting both his role in Germany's postwar boom and the dark chapters of political violence.

Born in Fes, Lamrani built a successful career in banking and sugar manufacturing. Appointed by King Hassan II, he first became Prime Minister in 1971 during a period of political unrest. He returned to the post in 1983 and again in 1992, overseeing structural adjustment programs. Lamrani worked to stabilize Morocco’s economy and attract foreign investment. He also served as an advisor to the monarchy and held leadership roles in major companies. Celebrated for his technocratic approach, he passed away in Rabat in 2018 at age 99.