September 14

Charles Lennox Richardson was an English merchant born in 1834. He traveled to Japan as a representative of British commercial interests. In 1862, he was killed in the Namamugi Incident near Yokohama. His death heightened tensions between Britain and the Satsuma Domain and led to the Anglo-Satsuma War. Richardson’s fate exemplified the risks faced by 19th century foreign traders in Japan.

William Seward Burroughs I was born in 1857 and revolutionized business computing with his adding machines. He patented his first mechanical calculator in 1885 and established the Burroughs Adding Machine Company in Detroit. Under his leadership, the company grew into the Burroughs Corporation, a major manufacturer of business equipment. Burroughs’s innovations improved accuracy and efficiency in offices worldwide. His legacy endures in the evolution of modern information technology.

John McPhee (1874–1952) was an Australian businessman and politician best known for serving as the 27th Premier of Tasmania. Born in Evandale, Tasmania, he studied at the University of Tasmania before founding a successful real estate and insurance business in Launceston. McPhee entered the Tasmanian House of Assembly in 1909 as a member of the Liberal League and quickly rose through the ranks. As Premier from 1928 to 1934, he guided the state through the onset of the Great Depression, implementing financial reforms and public works to stabilize the economy. After leaving the premiership, he served as a senator for Tasmania from 1935 to 1947. McPhee was known for his pragmatic leadership style and commitment to regional development. His contributions to Tasmanian politics and business left a lasting imprint on the island's economic landscape.

Gordon McLendon (1921–1986) was an innovative American radio broadcaster and entrepreneur. He founded the Liberty Broadcasting System in 1948, creating one of the first coast-to-coast radio networks. McLendon introduced the Top 40 radio format, revolutionizing how music was played on air. He owned multiple radio stations across the United States and Mexico. His ventures included sports broadcasts, news programming, and advertising innovations. McLendon was known for his flamboyant on-air persona and promotional stunts. He earned the nickname "The Maverick of Radio" for his creative approach. His contributions shaped modern commercial radio and influenced broadcasting worldwide.

Hyman Golden (1923–2008) was an American businessman best known for co-founding Snapple. He and his partners transformed a local juice startup into a national success in the 1980s. Under his leadership, Snapple became famous for its witty bottle cap facts and natural ingredients. Golden navigated the company's sale to major beverage corporations while retaining its quirky brand identity. He remained active in philanthropy, supporting educational and community initiatives. His innovative marketing strategies helped reshape the ready-to-drink beverage industry.

Eduardo Castro Luque was a Mexican businessman and politician known for bridging the private sector with public affairs. Born in 1963, he established his career in industry before entering politics to advocate for economic development initiatives. Castro Luque held leadership roles within major companies and later served in governmental capacities to support social and infrastructure projects. His dual experience in business strategy and legislative processes allowed him to promote policies aimed at stimulating growth and job creation. He was respected for his collaborative approach to policymaking and his commitment to community advancement. Castro Luque’s multifaceted career made him a notable figure in Mexico’s economic and political spheres until his death in 2012.

Sir Kan Yuet-keung was a Hong Kong banker, lawyer, and politician renowned for his leadership in both the public and private sectors. Born in 1913, he trained in law before joining the Bank of East Asia, where he rose to become chairman. Kan served as an unofficial member of Hong Kong’s Legislative and Executive Councils, advising on legal and financial matters during a critical period of growth. He played a key role in modernizing the territory’s banking regulations and promoting economic development. His expertise spanned corporate governance, legal affairs, and public policy, earning him widespread respect. Kan was honored with knighthood for his contributions to Hong Kong’s prosperity. He passed away in 2012, leaving a legacy of service and institutional advancement.

Fred DeLuca was an American businessman who co-founded the Subway sandwich chain in 1965 at the age of 17 with a $1,000 loan. Under his leadership as CEO, Subway grew from a single shop in Bridgeport, Connecticut, to a global franchise with thousands of locations. DeLuca's franchising model and focus on healthy, customizable options revolutionized fast food. He also established the Peter and Elizabeth C. Tower Foundation to support community health and education initiatives. Despite personal challenges, he remained actively involved in the company until his passing. DeLuca's vision and innovation left an indelible mark on the restaurant industry.