May 21

William P. Sprague was an American banker and Republican politician who served two terms as a U.S. Representative from Ohio's 17th district from 1871 to 1875. Born in Lisbon, Ohio, he organized and led local banking institutions that financed regional growth during Reconstruction. In Congress, Sprague advocated for fiscal responsibility, internal improvements, and veterans' benefits. His dual expertise in finance and governance earned him respect across party lines. After leaving politics, he continued to influence his community through philanthropy and business leadership.

Born in 1878 as a bicycle racer and motorcycle inventor, Glenn Curtiss turned to aviation in 1907. He set multiple early flight speed and distance records, becoming a leading figure in American aviation. Curtiss developed the first practical seaplanes and supplied aircraft to the U.S. Navy. In 1916, he founded the Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company, shaping the aircraft industry. His innovations earned him the title 'Father of Naval Aviation' and influenced future aircraft design.

Armand Hammer began his career as a medical doctor before entering the business world in the 1920s. He acquired and developed Occidental Petroleum into a major international oil company. Known for his lavish philanthropy, Hammer donated millions to universities, museums, and medical research institutions. He cultivated relationships with world leaders, including those in the Soviet Union, earning both praise and controversy. By the time of his death in 1990, he was regarded as one of America's wealthiest and most influential business figures.

George P. Mitchell founded Mitchell Energy & Development in 1958, laying the groundwork for modern fracking. His persistence through early setbacks led to breakthroughs in gas extraction that transformed the energy industry. Mitchell and his wife Cynthia contributed over $600 million to environmental, educational, and medical causes. He supported urban development projects and research initiatives at universities across Texas. His innovation and generosity left an enduring legacy in both business and philanthropy.

Forrest White (1920–1994) was an influential American businessman in the music industry. He partnered with Leo Fender to establish the Music Man Company in 1971, which produced the groundbreaking StingRay bass guitar. Serving as vice president, he managed production, spearheaded quality control, and guided the company's early growth. His emphasis on innovation helped shape modern electric instrument manufacturing. White's legacy continues through the enduring popularity of Music Man instruments.

Born into the family behind Unicum, Péter Zwack took charge of the Zwack liqueur business during the Cold War exile years. He skillfully revived the company's fortunes after returning to Hungary following the fall of communism. Zwack later entered diplomatic service, representing Hungary as ambassador to the United States from 1990 to 1991. Beyond business and diplomacy, he was a patron of the arts and supported numerous cultural initiatives. His leadership revitalized an iconic brand and bridged Hungarian business with international diplomacy.

Janet Dailey was one of the first American writers to break into the romance genre, publishing her debut novel in 1976. Over her career, she wrote more than 160 novels set in American Heartland, Western, and contemporary romance subgenres. Dailey's vivid characters and authentic settings earned her a passionate readership and bestseller status. She founded the e-book publisher Dailey Books to support digital distribution of her works. Her contributions helped shape the romance publishing industry until her death in 2013.