December 11

Born in 1675, Edmund Curll was a pioneering figure in the early 18th-century London book trade. He gained notoriety for publishing unauthorized biographies, scandalous poetry, and pirated editions of popular works. Curll's aggressive business tactics led to high-profile feuds, including a famous dispute with Alexander Pope. Despite criticism, he helped shape modern copyright law through his court cases. His press catered to a growing mass market for literature. Curll died in 1747, leaving a legacy of entrepreneurial daring in publishing.

Oliver Winchester (1810–1880) was an American industrialist and entrepreneur best known for founding the Winchester Repeating Arms Company. He initially built his career in finance before investing in firearms manufacturing and revitalizing a struggling workshop. Under his leadership, the company developed the Model 1866 lever-action rifle—a firearm that became synonymous with the American frontier. His innovations and business savvy helped shape the arms industry during the post–Civil War era. The Winchester brand he established endures as a symbol of quality and American manufacturing heritage.

Ludwig Mond (1839–1909) was a pioneering chemist and industrialist who discovered nickel carbonyl, a compound central to the development of the Mond process for nickel extraction. Born in Kassel, Germany, he studied under Robert Bunsen before relocating to England. Mond co-founded Brunner Mond & Company, which grew into a leading chemical manufacturer of soda ash and other industrial chemicals. His dual expertise in scientific research and business leadership drove significant advancements in chemical engineering. Mond was also a patron of scientific societies and supported educational initiatives in metallurgy and chemistry.

Born in Albany, New York, in 1891, Arthur Hays Sulzberger became publisher of The New York Times in 1935, succeeding his father-in-law Adolph Ochs. Under his leadership for over 25 years, the Times expanded its international coverage, won numerous Pulitzer Prizes, and established a reputation for rigorous reporting during World War II and the early Cold War. Sulzberger oversaw the paper's transition to a modern layout and introduced innovations such as expanded Sunday editions and improved photography. He supported editorial independence and championed press freedom during tumultuous political climates. After retiring in 1961, he remained a respected figure in journalism circles. Sulzberger's vision set a benchmark for quality newspapers worldwide.

Born in Manchester, New Hampshire, in 1902, Maurice McDonald co-founded the first McDonald's restaurant in San Bernardino, California, with his brother Richard in 1940. They revolutionized the industry with their "Speedee Service System", introducing assembly-line preparation for hamburgers, fries, and shakes. This efficient model emphasized consistency, quality, and fast service, setting the foundation for the global fast-food empire. Although they later sold franchising rights to Ray Kroc, the McDonald brothers' vision remained at the heart of the brand. Maurice oversaw day-to-day operations and menu development during the company's formative years. His contributions to restaurant management have had a lasting impact on dining worldwide.

H. Arnold Steinberg was a Canadian entrepreneur and philanthropist born in 1933. As a leader within a major retail business, he held executive roles including CEO and chairman positions. Steinberg was deeply committed to philanthropy, donating generously to educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and cultural organizations across Canada. He served on numerous academic boards and supported scholarships, fostering the next generation of leaders. In addition to his business and philanthropic work, he lectured at universities, sharing his expertise in business ethics and management. Steinberg's legacy is marked by his significant contributions to both the corporate world and the public good.

David Bonderman co-founded Texas Pacific Group (TPG Capital) in 1992, transforming the private equity industry. A graduate of Harvard Law School, he later served on the faculty at the University of Texas School of Law. Under his leadership, TPG executed landmark leveraged buyouts and global acquisitions, amassing billions in assets. Bonderman sat on numerous boards and was known for his philanthropic support of education, healthcare, and the arts. His strategic vision and deal-making prowess left an indelible mark on modern finance and investment strategies.