December 07

Thomas Bent was born in 1838 in Northumberland, England, and emigrated to Australia as a child. He began his career in local business, establishing successful land speculation ventures. Bent entered politics in the 1870s, serving in the Victorian Legislative Assembly. He became the 22nd Premier of Victoria in 1904, focusing on infrastructure and railway expansion. His administration was marked by both economic development and allegations of corruption. After leaving office in 1909, he remained active in public life until his death the same year.

Richard Warren Sears was born in 1863 in Stewartville, Minnesota. He began his career as a railroad station agent, selling watches by mail order. In 1892, Sears partnered with Alvah C. Roebuck to found Sears, Roebuck and Company. Under his leadership, the company revolutionized retail through catalogs and mail order. Sears helped shape American consumer culture before retiring in 1908.

Jack S. Blanton was an influential American businessman who served as president and CEO of Scurlock Oil Company and later as chairman of Texas Commerce Bank. A dedicated art collector, he chaired the University of Texas Board of Regents and spearheaded the creation of the Blanton Museum of Art in Austin. Blanton donated significant collections of European paintings and modern works, boosting the university’s cultural stature. His philanthropic efforts extended to higher education, healthcare, and community development throughout Texas. Through leadership and generosity, he left a lasting impact on academic and artistic institutions. Blanton’s legacy endures in the vibrant arts scene and public service initiatives he championed.

Reginald F. Lewis (1942–1993) made history when his firm TLC Group acquired Beatrice International Foods for $985 million in 1987. Born in Baltimore, he graduated from Harvard Law School before pursuing a career in corporate law and finance. Lewis was known for his strategic acquisitions and ability to revitalize underperforming businesses. He served on numerous corporate boards and invested in urban development and education initiatives. His autobiography, "Why Should White Guys Have All the Fun?", chronicles his groundbreaking journey in American business.

Born December 7, 1943 in the United States, John Bennett Ramsey pursued a career in the energy industry, founding and managing companies focused on drilling and oilfield services. An avid private pilot, Ramsey holds advanced certifications and has logged thousands of flight hours across various aircraft. His business interests have diversified into real estate and investment portfolios, demonstrating a knack for identifying growth opportunities. Ramsey became a public figure following a widely covered family tragedy in 1996, which brought intense media attention to his personal life. Despite the scrutiny, he continued to expand his entrepreneurial ventures and engage in philanthropic efforts. Ramsey's blend of technical expertise, leadership, and resilience has defined his long-standing presence in competitive markets. Today, he remains active in his businesses and aviation communities.