December 06

Born in 1814, Bigelow invented the first power loom for carpet weaving, automating a craft that was previously manual. He founded the Bigelow Carpet Mill in Clinton, Massachusetts, setting new standards for textile manufacturing. His patents and entrepreneurial spirit propelled the United States to a leading position in industrial textiles. Bigelow served in the Massachusetts legislature, advocating for education and infrastructure to support industry. He also established the Clinton Savings Bank to boost local economic growth. Bigelow died on December 6, 1879, leaving a legacy of innovation and community development.

Born in 1819 in Zurich, Escher became a leading figure in both finance and Swiss politics. As a National Council member, he promoted infrastructure to unify the federal state. He championed the Gotthard Railway, creating a vital alpine corridor for trade and travel. In 1856, he established Schweizerische Kreditanstalt (Credit Suisse) to finance railway and industrial ventures. Escher also helped found technical universities and scientific societies, fostering education and innovation. He died on December 6, 1882, remembered as a key architect of Switzerland's economic modernization.

Born in 1816 in Lenthe, Siemens showed early talent in mechanics and precision instrumentation. In 1847, he patented an improved telegraph system, kicking off his electrical engineering career. He co-founded Siemens & Halske, which grew into a global leader in telegraphy and power generation. Siemens fostered research by establishing dedicated laboratories and training engineers. His company expanded into medical technology, rail electrification, and large-scale power projects. He was ennobled as Werner von Siemens and died on December 6, 1892, leaving an industrial legacy.

Born in 1911 in Strasbourg, France, Charles Deutsch was a pioneering automotive engineer. He graduated in engineering and applied aerodynamic principles to the design of sports cars. In 1947, he co-founded the DB marque with René Bonnet, focusing on lightweight and efficient vehicles. Under his technical leadership, DB cars achieved success in European racing during the 1950s. His innovative work influenced future generations of automotive designers. Deutsch remained active in engineering until his death on December 6, 1980, leaving a lasting legacy in motorsport.

Born in 1926, Pete Rozelle became the youngest commissioner in professional sports when he led the National Football League from 1960 to 1989. Under his leadership, the NFL expanded its television presence, popularizing the Super Bowl as a major event. Rozelle negotiated landmark broadcast contracts and oversaw league expansion and franchise relocations. His vision transformed the NFL into a cultural phenomenon and profitable enterprise. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his contributions to American sports.

Jeffrey Koo Sr. led Chinatrust Financial Holding to become one of Taiwan’s largest banking conglomerates. Under his guidance, the group expanded into insurance, securities, and international markets. He championed innovation in financial services, emphasizing transparency and customer trust. Koo’s leadership extended to philanthropic efforts in education and community development. His business acumen solidified Taiwan’s place in the global financial industry.