Canadian businessman, founded the Cunard Line
Canadian businessman
founded the Cunard Line
Samuel Cunard was a Canadian shipping magnate who founded the Cunard Line, pioneering transatlantic steamship travel.
Samuel Cunard established one of the first successful transatlantic steamship companies with the launch of the Britannia in 1840. Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, he navigated the risks of early steam navigation to connect Britain and North America. Under his leadership, the Cunard Line became synonymous with safety, speed, and reliability. He introduced innovations like improved hull designs and navigational practices. Cunard's commitment to regular schedules and passenger comfort set new industry standards. His legacy endures in the modern cruise and shipping industries.
1787
Samuel Cunard
Cunard Line
American businesswoman and financier
American businesswoman and financier
Hetty Green was an American financier known as the "Witch of Wall Street" for her sharp investments and frugal lifestyle.
Born into a wealthy family, Green expanded her inheritance through strategic investments in real estate, railroads, and government bonds. She employed meticulous analysis and a risk-averse approach, building a fortune estimated at over $100 million by the early 20th century. Despite her wealth, she lived austerely, often wearing outdated clothing to avoid unnecessary expenses. Her reputation for tough negotiation earned both admiration and criticism in financial circles. Green supported philanthropic causes quietly, avoiding public recognition. Her success challenged gender norms and paved the way for future women investors.
1834
Hetty Green
American businesswoman
American businesswoman
American businesswoman best known for owning and moving the NFL's Rams franchise.
Georgia Frontiere was born on November 21, 1927, in St. Louis, Missouri.
She inherited the Los Angeles Rams franchise in 1979 and later oversaw its relocation to St. Louis in 1995.
As majority owner, she became one of the NFL's first female team owners and a pioneering figure in professional sports management.
Under her leadership, the Rams won Super Bowl XXXIV in 2000, marking the team's first title in 31 years.
Beyond football, Frontiere was known for her philanthropic efforts in arts, education, and animal welfare through the Frontiere Foundation.
She passed away on January 18, 2008, leaving a legacy of innovation and empowerment for women in sports.
1927
Georgia Frontiere
Baron Kalms, English businessman
Baron Kalms
English businessman
English businessman and life peer who led Dixons Group to become a retail giant.
Stanley Kalms, Baron Kalms, was born on November 21, 1931, in London, England.
He joined the family business, Dixons, in the 1950s and rose to become chairman in 1971.
Under his leadership, Dixons expanded into one of Europe's largest electrical retail chains.
In recognition of his business achievements, he was knighted in 1999 and made a life peer in 2004.
Beyond retail, Lord Kalms has been active in educational charities and public service initiatives across the UK.
He continues to influence the business world through his advocacy for entrepreneurship and ethical leadership.
Stanley Kalms, Baron Kalms
Baron Davies of Abersoch, Welsh banker and politician
Baron Davies of Abersoch
Welsh banker and politician
Mervyn Davies, Baron Davies of Abersoch, is a Welsh banker and former UK Trade Minister noted for his leadership in finance and government.
Born in 1952, Mervyn Davies built a successful career in international finance, holding senior positions at Goldman Sachs and Standard Chartered. In 2009, he was appointed a life peer as Baron Davies of Abersoch and served as Minister of State for Trade and Investment. He championed UK economic growth, attracting foreign investment and supporting British businesses abroad. Davies has chaired major financial organizations, including the British Bankers' Association. In the House of Lords, he focused on economic policy, trade agreements, and financial regulation. His dual expertise in banking and public service has influenced both the private sector and government.
1952
Mervyn Davies, Baron Davies of Abersoch
American race car driver
American race car driver
American rally driver and co-founder of DC Shoes, famed for his Gymkhana driving videos and X Games performances.
Ken Block co-founded the action sports brand DC Shoes before launching his iconic rally career.
He brought freestyle driving to a global audience with his viral Gymkhana video series, blending precision car control with cinematic flair.
Block earned medals at the X Games and competed in the World Rally Championship, showcasing his versatility across disciplines.
Beyond racing, he built the Hoonigan brand, influencing car culture and motorsport marketing worldwide.
Block’s adventurous spirit and cinematic stunts left a lasting legacy in both the automotive and extreme sports communities.
1967
Ken Block