June 13

Sir Richard Glyn was born in 1711 into a family prominent in commerce and finance. He established himself as a successful banker, co-founding the private bank that would become part of modern banking institutions. In recognition of his contributions to the City of London, he was created 1st Baronet of Ewell. Glyn served as Lord Mayor of London, overseeing municipal affairs and representing the financial capital of Britain. His leadership bridged the worlds of business and public service during a period of economic expansion. Sir Richard Glyn's legacy endures in the institutions and philanthropic efforts he supported before his death in 1773.

Alberto Henschel was born in 1827 in Berlin and emigrated to Brazil in the mid-19th century. He established photography studios in Rio de Janeiro, Recife, and São Paulo, capturing portraits of all social classes. Henschel became the Imperial Court photographer for Emperor Pedro II of Brazil. His extensive archives document urban and rural life during Brazil’s early industrial era. Beyond photography, he managed a successful business known as Henschel & Cia. His images remain valuable historical records of Brazilian society and culture. He died in 1882, leaving a visual legacy appreciated by historians and art enthusiasts.

Charles Algernon Parsons was born near London in 1854, son of the Dean of Bristol. He studied engineering at Cambridge University and collaborated on early electrical generators. In 1884 he invented the steam turbine, dramatically improving the efficiency of marine and power generation engines. He founded C. A. Parsons and Company in 1889 to manufacture turbines for ships and power plants. Parsons’ technology powered naval vessels, ocean liners, and early electricity grids worldwide. He received a knighthood for his contributions to engineering. He died in 1931, and his innovations remain fundamental to modern turbine design.

Heinrich Gutkin was a prominent Estonian Jewish entrepreneur and community leader. He served in the Estonian Parliament, advocating for economic development and minority rights. Gutkin founded and managed textile mills, boosting local industry in Tallinn. He played a key role in shaping Estonia’s business infrastructure after independence in 1918. During political upheaval, he worked to protect the rights of Jewish and business communities. His legacy reflects a commitment to entrepreneurship and social progress.

Manuel Clouthier began his career as a successful entrepreneur before entering politics with Mexico’s National Action Party (PAN). He became the party’s presidential candidate in the tightly contested 1988 election, challenging the ruling party and promoting economic liberalization. Renowned for his charismatic speaking style and commitment to transparent governance, he energized a new generation of political activists. His sudden death in a 1989 road accident cut short a rising political career. Clouthier’s advocacy for free markets and democracy remains influential in Mexican politics.

Sunny Balwani is a Pakistani-American businessman best known for his role as president and COO of Theranos, a health technology company. He joined Theranos in 2003 and worked closely with founder Elizabeth Holmes to develop rapid blood-testing devices. Under his leadership, the company attracted high-profile investors and reached a peak valuation of over $9 billion. In 2018, federal prosecutors charged him with massive fraud for misleading investors and patients about the reliability of Theranos's technology. He was convicted and sentenced in 2022 for his involvement in the scheme. His case remains a cautionary tale about corporate governance and startup hype.

David Madden is the founder and executive director of the National History Bee and National History Bowl, premier academic competitions for students worldwide. He established the History Bee in 2010 to inspire passion for history and civic engagement among young learners. Under his leadership, the competitions have grown to include thousands of participants across multiple countries. Madden has spoken at educational conferences on the importance of interactive learning and historical scholarship. He continues to expand the reach of the History Bee and Bowl through partnerships, innovative formats, and digital platforms.

Ashley Olsen was born on June 13, 1986 in Sherman Oaks, California alongside her twin sister Mary-Kate. She began acting at nine months old on Full House, sharing the role of Michelle Tanner with her sister. In 2006, the Olsen twins shifted their focus to fashion and launched The Row, a high-end label celebrated for its minimalist aesthetic. Ashley has received acclaim for her design vision and has expanded her fashion empire with multiple brands and partnerships. Beyond fashion, she has written books and supported philanthropic causes related to child welfare and education. Her blend of creativity and entrepreneurship has solidified her reputation as a leading figure in the fashion industry.

Mary-Kate Olsen was born on June 13, 1986 in Sherman Oaks, California as the twin sister of Ashley Olsen. She shared the role of Michelle Tanner on Full House before shifting her career to fashion in 2006. Together with Ashley, she launched The Row and has been praised for her craftsmanship and innovative designs. Mary-Kate has played a key role in expanding their brands, including Elizabeth and James and other ventures. She actively supports charitable organizations focused on women’s health and childhood education. Her influence extends beyond design, as she is recognized for paving the way for celebrity-led fashion labels.