August 17

Marcus Garvey was born in 1887 in Jamaica and emerged as a leading Pan-Africanist thinker. He founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) to advance black economic independence and pride. In 1919, Garvey established the Black Star Line shipping company to facilitate trade and return to Africa. An eloquent orator, he traveled globally to inspire diaspora communities with his vision of self-reliance. Despite legal and financial challenges, his movement influenced civil rights and decolonization leaders. Garvey's Red, Black, and Green flag became a symbol of African unity and remains in use today. His writings and activism laid the groundwork for later liberation movements across Africa and the Americas.

Born in Rochester, William Rootes began his career in the family hotel business before entering the automotive industry. He acquired Hillman Motor Company and led the creation of the Rootes Group, producing brands like Hillman, Humber, and Sunbeam. During World War II, Rootes oversaw the conversion of his factories to support aircraft production. Knighted for his contributions to industry, he served as President of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. Raised to the peerage in 1959, Lord Rootes played a pivotal role in shaping post-war British manufacturing.

Valerie Eliot (1926-2012) was an English businesswoman who dedicated her life to managing the estate of her husband, Nobel laureate poet T. S. Eliot. After their marriage in 1957, she became the custodian of his literary works, editing and publishing his letters, essays, and unpublished manuscripts. Eliot founded the T. S. Eliot Estate and oversaw the production of critical editions, ensuring the poet's legacy for future generations. She also organized exhibitions and lectures, bringing greater public attention to Eliot's life and work. Her meticulous scholarship and business acumen were crucial in shaping modern understanding of one of the 20th century's most important poets.

Lothar Bisky (1941–2013) was an East German politician and later leader in unified Germany’s left-wing movement. A founding member of the Party of Democratic Socialism (PDS), he served as co-chair when it merged to form Die Linke in 2007. Bisky was a member of the Bundestag from 1990 to 1998 and again from 2005 to 2013, focusing on cultural and media policy. Before his political career, he worked in publishing and film distribution, blending his business acumen with political activism. Remembered for his moderate approach and efforts to modernize the left, Bisky left a lasting impact on German politics.

Larry Ellison co-founded Oracle Corporation in 1977 and grew it into one of the world's leading software companies, specializing in database management systems. Under his leadership as CEO, Oracle went public in 1986 and pursued strategic acquisitions to expand its technology portfolio. Ellison's vision of cloud computing and enterprise solutions has influenced the modern IT industry. He is known for his competitive drive, ambitious projects, and significant investment in research and development. Beyond technology, Ellison invests in real estate, aviation, and sports, including ownership stakes in America's Cup yachting teams. He has been one of the richest individuals globally and a prominent philanthropist, focusing on medical research and education. Ellison stepped down as CEO in 2014 but remains an influential figure as Oracle's chairman and chief technology officer.

Mario Theissen is a German mechanical engineer and business leader best known for directing BMW Motorsport in Formula One. Educated in automotive engineering, he joined BMW in the 1980s and rose to become head of engines and later director of the F1 program. Under his leadership from 1999 to 2009, BMW achieved multiple Grand Prix victories and developed competitive power units. Theissen also oversaw partnerships, including the BMW-Williams team collaboration. After leaving BMW, he continued to influence motorsport through consultancy and strategic roles. His blend of technical expertise and management skill has left a lasting impact on racing engineering. Theissen's career exemplifies innovation at the intersection of engineering and executive leadership.

Gail Berman began her career as an agent before rising to executive roles in television. She served as president of Fox Broadcasting's entertainment division, overseeing popular series in the 1990s. In 2001, she co-founded BermanBraun with former NBC executive Lloyd Braun, producing acclaimed shows such as Buffy the Vampire Slayer and The Closer. Berman later held leadership positions at Paramount Pictures and Dick Clark Productions. Known for her strategic vision and advocacy for creative talent, she continues to influence the television and digital media landscape.

Fred Goodwin trained as an accountant before joining the Royal Bank of Scotland in 1982, rising through the ranks to become CEO in 2001. Under his leadership, RBS expanded aggressively, acquiring NatWest and numerous international banks. Goodwin earned the nickname 'Fred the Shred' for his cost-cutting measures and decisive management style. His tenure ended controversially in 2008 when RBS faced massive losses during the global financial crisis, leading to a government bailout. Despite the backlash, Goodwin later contributed to banking reviews and government commissions, remaining a significant figure in UK finance history.