November 17

John Walter was an English businessman who launched The Daily Universal Register (later The Times) in 1785. A savvy insurance underwriter, he applied his commercial expertise to the newspaper business, improving distribution and typesetting. His paper introduced timely reporting, regular publication schedules, and high printing standards that set new industry benchmarks. In 1788 he renamed the paper The Times and secured royal patronage, expanding its readership across Britain. Walter handed over operations to his son in 1803 but continued to influence editorial direction until his death. He died in 1812, remembered as a pioneering figure in the development of the modern press.

Herman Hollerith was an American statistician whose inventions revolutionized data processing. Born in 1860, he invented the electric tabulating machine utilizing punch cards to process census data faster and more accurately. His technology dramatically reduced the time needed to compile statistics for the 1890 U.S. Census. In 1896, he founded the Tabulating Machine Company, which later became part of IBM. Hollerith's innovations laid the groundwork for modern computing and data storage techniques. He is often recognized as a pioneer in the history of information technology.

Georges Besse (April 25, 1927 – November 17, 1986) was a prominent French businessman and executive. He transformed Renault in the late 1970s, restoring profitability through cost-cutting and innovation. In 1985, he became head of Eurodif, a key European nuclear energy consortium. Besse was known for decisive leadership and strategic vision in heavy industry. His reform efforts often sparked controversy among labor unions. Tragically, he was assassinated by the extremist group Action Directe outside his Paris home. Besse's impact on French industry is remembered for balancing modernization with national economic interests.

Ponty Chadha (1957–2012) was an influential Indian businessman who built the Wave Group into a diversified real estate and agricultural conglomerate. Born in Uttar Pradesh, he expanded his family’s rice and sugar trading business into hospitality, retail, and education sectors. Chadha was renowned for his philanthropic initiatives, funding hospitals, schools, and disaster relief efforts across India. Under his leadership, the Wave Group became known for innovative property developments and social responsibility. He was also a prominent figure in India’s agricultural export market, earning the moniker 'Rice King' of Asia. Chadha’s sudden death in 2012 led to widespread media attention and discussions on business ethics and family disputes. His legacy lives on through the charitable trusts and institutions established in his name.

Lea Gottlieb (1918–2012) was a visionary fashion designer who brought Israeli swimwear to international prominence. Born in Hungary, she survived World War II before immigrating to Israel in 1949 with her husband, Armin. In 1956, she founded Gottex, combining European haute couture techniques with innovative fabric technologies. Gottlieb’s vibrant designs, clever cuts, and bold prints revolutionized the swimwear industry and earned celebrity clientele worldwide. She led Gottex for over four decades, building it into a globally recognized luxury brand. Gottlieb received numerous awards for her contributions to fashion, including lifetime achievement honors. Her legacy endures in museum retrospectives and the continued influence of her iconic swimwear creations.