August 12

James 'Diamond Jim' Brady was a prominent American businessman who made his fortune in the railroad and copper industries. He earned his nickname by wearing lavish diamond-studded accessories and hosting extravagant banquets. Brady became a symbol of the Gilded Age, known for his hearty appetite and flamboyant public persona. Despite his extravagance, he donated generously to hospitals and charitable causes. His legacy endures as an icon of American wealth and philanthropy during the late 19th century.

Bruce Matthews (1909–1991) was a senior officer in the Canadian Army who achieved the rank of General after distinguished service in mid-20th century conflicts. He held key command and staff positions, contributing to Canada’s defense strategy during the Cold War. After leaving the military, Matthews transitioned to the business world, serving as an executive and board member for several corporations. He was recognized for his leadership abilities both in uniform and in the boardroom and received military honors for his service. He remained active in veterans’ affairs until his death in 1991.

George Soros gained international acclaim after founding Soros Fund Management, revolutionizing hedge fund investing. He famously made a billion dollars in a single day by shorting the British pound in 1992. Beyond finance, he established the Open Society Foundations to support democracy, human rights, and education worldwide. His philanthropic initiatives have donated billions to causes across more than 100 countries. Soros is also an author, writing extensively on economics, politics, and social issues. His life and work continue to influence both financial markets and global policy debates.

Born in Nottinghamshire in 1970, Perkins began his career in small business management, founding a hospitality venture. Elected to Parliament in 2010, he advocates for economic development and workers' rights. He has served as Shadow Minister for Small Business, working to support SMEs across the UK. Committed to his constituency, he has championed local infrastructure, education, and healthcare initiatives. Perkins’ blend of political experience and entrepreneurial insight informs his work on national economic policy.