September 13

Born in 1755 in Delaware, Evans displayed mechanical ingenuity from an early age. He designed the first fully automated flour mill using bucket elevators and conveyors. Evans patented a high-pressure steam engine, influencing the nascent American industrial revolution. His Young Mill-Wright and Miller’s Guide became a foundational text for early engineers. He navigated fierce patent disputes and built mills across the Eastern Seaboard before dying in 1819.

Born in Pennsylvania in 1857, Hershey apprenticed with a candy maker before starting his own business. He founded the Lancaster Caramel Company and later established the Hershey Chocolate Company in 1903. With a vision for a model industrial town, he built Hershey, Pennsylvania, including schools and parks. Hershey used his fortune to create the Hershey Industrial School for orphaned boys, now Milton Hershey School. He died in 1945, leaving a legacy of community-focused business and chocolate innovation.

Born in 1880 in San Francisco, Jesse L. Lasky transitioned from vaudeville to film production and, in 1913, helped establish the Lasky Feature Play Company. Partnering with Adolph Zukor in 1916, they formed Famous Players–Lasky, which produced early Hollywood classics such as "The Squaw Man." Lasky was instrumental in developing the studio system and star-driven marketing. He later served in leadership roles at Paramount Pictures and contributed to the founding of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. He died in 1958.

Antony Noghès was a French-Monegasque entrepreneur credited with launching the Monaco Grand Prix in 1929, one of the most prestigious events in motorsport. Born in Paris in 1890, he later became a key official in Monaco's administration of public works and tourism. Noghès envisioned a street circuit that would showcase the principality's glamour and challenging layout, attracting international drivers and spectators. He also played a pivotal role in establishing the Rallye Monte-Carlo, further cementing Monaco's reputation in motorsport. His innovative vision transformed racing culture and boosted Monaco's global profile.

Born in 1919, George Weidenfeld established a prominent publishing house that brought important works to international audiences. As a journalist, he provided insightful commentary on political and cultural developments. His philanthropic efforts supported education, cultural exchange, and human rights initiatives around the world. Weidenfeld was ennobled as Baron for his significant contributions to publishing and public life. He built relationships with leading authors, politicians, and thinkers throughout his career. Until his passing in 2016, he remained active in publishing and charitable work, leaving a lasting impact on European intellectual culture.

Robert Gavron, Baron Gavron, was a British publisher who founded the New English Library and built a successful publishing empire. A dedicated philanthropist, he supported educational, health, and cultural charities throughout the UK. Created a life peer in 1990, he was an active member of the House of Lords on the Labour benches. Gavron chaired multiple publishing and investment companies and promoted social causes. His legacy continues through charitable trusts he established and the influence of his publishing innovations.

Donald Mackay was an Australian businessman and community activist who led campaigns against drug trafficking in New South Wales. As a local cane farmer turned public figure, he organized petitions and lobby groups to expose organized crime's role in heroin distribution. Mackay faced threats for his activism and went missing in July 1977, with his disappearance leading to one of Australia's most infamous criminal investigations. His efforts brought national attention to the dangers of drug crime and organized gangs. Mackay's legacy endures in anti-drug advocacy and legal reforms inspired by his courage.

Kerry Stokes is an Australian businessman born in 1940. He built a diversified corporate empire spanning media, construction, and resources. As chairman of Seven Group Holdings and Seven West Media, he has overseen major broadcasting and mining ventures. Stokes is also known for his philanthropic support of the arts and education. His business acumen has earned him recognition as one of Australia's leading corporate figures. He continues to influence the media landscape and support community initiatives.

Michel Côté is a Canadian figure born in 1942 who has balanced roles in both business and politics. He began his career as an entrepreneur, launching successful ventures that contributed to regional economic growth. Later, Côté entered politics, where he applied his business acumen to public policy and community development. Throughout his career, he has championed initiatives supporting small businesses and local industries. His dual experience in the private and public sectors has made him a versatile leader. Côté remains active in advisory roles, mentoring the next generation of Canadian entrepreneurs and officials.

John W. Henry began his career as a futures trader, founding John W. Henry & Company in the 1980s. He applied trend-following trading strategies that delivered consistent returns over decades. In 2002, Henry purchased the Boston Red Sox, ending their 86-year championship drought with World Series wins in 2004 and 2007. He later acquired Liverpool Football Club, guiding them to a long-awaited Premier League title in 2020. Beyond sports, Henry invests in agribusiness and renewable energy, blending quantitative analysis with business ventures. His philanthropic work focuses on education and community development, reflecting his commitment to social impact.

Stella McCartney is an English fashion designer celebrated for blending luxury with ethical practices. The daughter of musician Paul McCartney and photographer Linda McCartney, she launched her label in 2001. Her designs are recognized for modern tailoring, innovative fabrics, and a strict no-leather, no-fur policy. She has collaborated with global brands such as Adidas to create sustainable sportswear collections. McCartney has received numerous awards for design innovation and environmental responsibility. She serves as an ambassador for animal rights and environmental causes, integrating activism into her work. Her brand spans womenswear, accessories, and fragrances, solidifying her role as a leader in conscious fashion.

Peter Sunde co-founded The Pirate Bay in 2003, one of the world's largest torrent websites, challenging traditional models of digital distribution. As an entrepreneur and activist, he has campaigned for open internet policies, privacy rights, and copyright law reform. Sunde's efforts have led to legal battles and global discussions about digital rights. He later launched Flattr, a micropayment system for online content, aiming to create fair revenue streams for creators. Sunde continues to speak at technology and freedom of information conferences worldwide. His work has made him a prominent voice in debates over internet governance and digital culture.