August 04

Born in 1821 in Anchay, France, and later moved to Paris at age 16.\nApprenticed as a box-maker and trunk-maker, mastering the craft of travel goods.\nFounded the Louis Vuitton brand in 1854, introducing flat-topped trunks lighter and more durable than traditional designs.\nSecured a royal warrant to supply luggage to Empress Eugénie of France.\nExpanded his workshop into a global luxury enterprise renowned for quality and innovation.\nEstablished design elements such as striped canvas and monogram motifs to prevent counterfeiting.\nDied in 1892, leaving a legacy as a pioneer of luxury fashion and travel accessories.

Albert M. Greenfield was a Ukrainian-born American entrepreneur who built one of Philadelphia’s largest real estate and finance empires. Arriving in the United States as a child, he began his career in retail banking and quickly expanded into department stores, hotels, and office buildings. By the mid-20th century, Greenfield controlled numerous companies under his business group, shaping the city’s skyline. A devoted philanthropist, he supported education, healthcare, and the arts, donating generously to cultural institutions. Greenfield also served as a civic leader, advising mayors and governors on urban development. His legacy lives on through the institutions he supported and landmarks bearing his name.

Born in 1915 in Newark, New Jersey, Warren Avis served as a pilot in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. In 1946, he founded Avis Rent a Car System in Detroit, pioneering the concept of airport car rental and offering customers the first drive-through rental service. Under his leadership, Avis grew into a leading global brand known for its innovative marketing and customer service. Avis's impact on the automotive and travel industries has been recognized with his induction into the Automotive Hall of Fame. He passed away in 2007, leaving a lasting business legacy.

Clarke Reed is an American businessman and political strategist born in 1928. He served as chairman of the Mississippi Republican Party from 1966 to 1976, overseeing significant growth in party membership and electoral victories. Reed then represented Mississippi on the Republican National Committee for over three decades, advising on national campaign strategy. His efforts were instrumental in building a competitive two-party system in a region long dominated by Democrats. Reed was widely respected for his organizational skills and ability to bridge divides within the party.

Alan Mulally began his career as an aerospace engineer at Boeing, where he rose to lead the commercial airplanes division. He was appointed President and CEO of Ford Motor Company in 2006 during a period of financial crisis. Mulally implemented the One Ford strategy, streamlining global operations and securing partnerships that revitalized the company. Under his leadership, Ford returned to profitability without requiring a government bailout. His collaborative management style and focus on innovation earned him widespread recognition in the business world. After retiring from Ford, he continued to advise industry leaders and universities.

Adam Marcel Afriyie is an English entrepreneur and Conservative politician. He founded the biotech investment company ProVen and has held interests in technology and property ventures. In 2005, Afriyie was elected as the MP for Windsor and Maidenhead, serving until 2019. He became known for his work on economic policy, small business support, and innovation. Afriyie has served on several parliamentary committees, focusing on trade and industry. Educated at University College London, he began his career in financial services before moving into entrepreneurship.