May 11

Born in Lyon in 1777, Juliette Récamier married banker Jacques Récamier and inherited his fortune. In Paris, she established an exclusive salon that drew writers, artists, and politicians such as Chateaubriand, Lamartine, and Madame de Staël. Her elegant soirées became hubs of intellectual and political exchange during the Directory, the First Empire, and the Restoration. Combining social grace with entrepreneurial spirit, she opened a fashionable boutique offering fine textiles and decorative arts. Despite shifting political tides, Récamier maintained her reputation for beauty, wit, and patronage. She died in 1849, remembered as one of 19th century France's most celebrated cultural figures.

Born in Birmingham in 1801 to a Quaker family, John Cadbury began his career selling tea and coffee before experimenting with cocoa and chocolate. In 1824, he opened a small shop that evolved into Cadbury Brothers Ltd, laying the foundation for a confectionery empire. Committed to social welfare, he pioneered the development of Bournville, a model village providing quality housing and amenities for workers. His innovations in cocoa processing and dedication to ethical business practices set new industry standards. Cadbury's philanthropic efforts extended to education and healthcare in Birmingham. He died in 1889, leaving a legacy of sweet success and social responsibility.

John D. Rockefeller Jr. was an American financier and philanthropist. As the only son of John D. Rockefeller, he managed family investments and trusts. He contributed to landmark projects, including funding national parks and the Rockefeller Center. Rockefeller Jr. supported educational and cultural institutions like universities and museums. He donated land for the United Nations headquarters in New York City. His philanthropic vision shaped modern charitable giving and institutional development. He balanced business acumen with a commitment to social welfare and global cooperation.