July 18

Eric Brandon (1920–1982) was an English racing driver who participated in the inaugural Formula One World Championship. Driving for the HWM team in the early 1950s, he competed against future legends and helped raise the profile of British motorsport. After retiring from racing, Brandon co-founded an automotive company that produced performance parts and supported emerging drivers. His entrepreneurial efforts contributed to the post-war growth of the British automotive industry. Brandon's dual legacy as a competitor and businessman continues to inspire motorsport enthusiasts and engineers. He is remembered for his passion, innovation, and dedication to advancing racing technology.

Peter Austin (1921–2014) was an English brewer celebrated for founding Ringwood Brewery in 1978, one of the pioneers of Britain's craft beer revolution. He championed traditional cask ale production, sourcing local ingredients to create distinctive and flavorful beers. Austin also provided consultancy services to aspiring brewers, sharing equipment designs and brewing techniques. His advocacy for independent brewing played a central role in the resurgence of real ale in the UK. Recognized with industry awards, he remained active in brewing circles until his passing. Austin's vision and expertise laid the groundwork for today's thriving microbrewery scene.

American inventor Jerome H. Lemelson held over 600 patents in fields such as robotics, bar codes, and videocassette recording. Born in New York in 1923, he studied industrial engineering at Columbia University. Lemelson co-founded several companies to commercialize his inventions and championed the rights of independent inventors. He was instrumental in developing technologies that shaped modern manufacturing and retail industries. In addition to his engineering work, he established the Lemelson Foundation to support future innovators. Lemelson's prolific output made him one of America's most prolific inventors until his passing in 1997.

Born in 1947 to a publishing family, Steve Forbes took the helm of Forbes magazine and expanded its global reach. He popularized the Forbes 400 list and authored books on economics and personal finance. Forbes ran for the Republican nomination for U.S. President in 1996 and 2000, advocating for a flat tax. His campaigns brought national attention to supply-side economic policies. Under his leadership, Forbes Media diversified into digital media and international editions. He continues to influence public discourse through writings and media appearances.

Born in 1950 in Surrey, England, Richard Branson founded the Virgin Group at age 20 with a mail-order record business. He expanded Virgin into industries including music, airlines, telecommunications, and space tourism. Branson set world records in hot-air ballooning and ocean rowing, reflecting his passion for adventure. His unconventional management style and emphasis on brand experience reshaped customer relations in multiple sectors. He has authored several books on entrepreneurship and philanthropy. Branson actively supports global causes such as climate change, health, and social innovation through the Virgin Unite foundation.

Born in 1950 in Lahore, Pakistan, Shahid Khan moved to the U.S. to pursue engineering studies. He built Flex-N-Gate into a global automotive supplier with billions in revenue. In 2011, he became the first minority owner in the NFL when he purchased the Jacksonville Jaguars. He later acquired English football club Fulham F.C., expanding his influence in international sports. Khan is recognized for his philanthropic work in education and community development. His rags-to-riches story exemplifies entrepreneurial success and cross-border achievement. He continues to champion diversity and innovation in business and sports.