July 18

Thomas Cook was an innovative English entrepreneur born in 1808 who is credited with founding modern tourism. In 1841, he organized his first group railway excursion, offering the first package tour and making travel accessible to the middle class. He established the Thomas Cook Group in 1845, later introducing traveler's cheques and expanding international itineraries. Cook's vision transformed travel from a luxury for the elite into a widespread social activity. His company set standards for organized travel services and shaped the global tourism industry. Cook died in 1892, leaving a lasting legacy that endures through his eponymous travel brand.