May 18

Born in 1730, Levy Solomons established himself as one of the first Jewish merchants in Montreal. He built extensive fur trading networks with Indigenous communities and European partners. Despite facing legal and social barriers, he became a prominent figure in colonial commerce. His entrepreneurial spirit helped lay the foundations for the Canadian fur industry. Solomons' correspondence and business records offer valuable insights into early Canadian economic history. He died in 1792, leaving a legacy as a pioneering merchant in North America.

Roger Ailes began his career as a television producer and political consultant, advising four U.S. presidents. In 1996, he co-founded Fox News Channel and served as its CEO for two decades, transforming cable news with a new style of opinion-driven programming. Ailes's leadership made Fox News one of the most-watched cable networks in the United States. He was both praised for his media acumen and criticized for his management style. His influence reshaped the American news landscape and sparked debates about media bias and journalistic standards.

Bruce Nordstrom was born into the Nordstrom family in 1933 and joined the family business. He served as president and CEO of Nordstrom, Inc. from 1968 to 2000, overseeing its expansion nationwide. Under his leadership, the company became known for its customer service and innovative retail strategies. He championed a people-first corporate culture and guided the company through economic challenges. Even after stepping down, he remained active as a director and ambassador for the brand. His tenure solidified Nordstrom's reputation as a leading department store chain in the United States.

Tony O'Reilly rose to fame as a centre for the Irish national rugby union team in the 1950s and 1960s. He captained Ireland to multiple Five Nations Championship victories, earning acclaim for his skill and leadership. After retiring from sports, he transitioned into business and acquired Independent News & Media, becoming its CEO. Under his stewardship, the company expanded into Europe and Australasia, transforming it into a major media conglomerate. He also chaired Heinz's European operations, playing a key role in international food industry strategies. Philanthropically, he supported educational and cultural initiatives in Ireland and abroad. He was knighted for his contributions to both sport and business.