August 24

Born in 1860, Tom Norman rose to fame as one of London's most notorious showmen, managing sideshows and 'freak' exhibitions. He famously displayed attractions such as Jumbo the elephant and the so-called Elephant Man, drawing massive crowds. Known for his shrewd business sense and theatrical flair, Norman toured the UK and Europe, leaving a lasting mark on popular entertainment. His memoirs offer a rare glimpse into the moral complexities of Victorian spectacle. Despite controversies over exploitation, he remains a key figure in the history of circus and sideshow culture.

Born in 1882 in Sprout Brook, New York, Henry J. Kaiser began his career as a construction contractor before entering shipbuilding during World War II. His Kaiser Shipyards produced Liberty ships at unprecedented speed, shaping the Allied war effort. After the war, he co-founded Kaiser Aluminum and the Kaiser Permanente healthcare system, revolutionizing corporate medicine. Known for his innovative management techniques, Kaiser built one of the largest conglomerates in American history. He remained active in industry and philanthropy until his death in 1967.

Born in 1904, Bernard Castro immigrated to the United States and began a business selling radios and televisions. In the early 1930s, he invented the Castro Convertible sofa bed, revolutionizing space-saving furniture design. He founded Castro Convertibles, scaling it into a chain known for innovative and stylish home furnishings. Castro held multiple patents and was celebrated for blending functionality with luxury in his products. He remained active in his company until his death in 1991, leaving a lasting impact on the American furniture industry.

Muriel Siebert was a trailblazer in the financial industry as the first female member of the New York Stock Exchange in 1967. She founded her own brokerage firm, Muriel Siebert & Co., and became known as the First Woman of Wall Street. Siebert implemented reforms to increase transparency and access for individual investors. A dedicated philanthropist, she supported educational programs and advocated for women’s advancement in finance. Siebert also served as New York State Superintendent of Banks from 1977 to 1982. Her pioneering spirit helped pave the way for future generations of women in business.

Antônio Ermírio de Moraes was a prominent Brazilian businessman who served as chairman of the Votorantim Group, one of the largest privately held companies in Latin America. Under his leadership, Votorantim expanded its operations into steel, cement, pulp and paper, and energy. He was widely respected for his commitment to social responsibility, funding educational and healthcare initiatives in rural Brazil. Moraes also ran for governor of São Paulo in 1986, demonstrating civic engagement beyond business. A passionate advocate for environmental conservation, he supported reforestation projects and sustainable development. Known for his integrity and humility, he mentored young entrepreneurs and supported academic research. His contributions to both industry and society made him a revered figure in Brazilian history.