December 15

Alfred Bird (1811–1878) was an English chemist whose culinary inventions revolutionized home baking. Motivated by his wife’s yeast allergy, he developed custard powder in 1837 and baking powder in 1843, offering reliable leavening without yeast. His innovations led to the founding of Bird & Co., which became a leading supplier of food additives across Britain and beyond. Bird’s baking powder provided consistent results and helped popularize quick breads and cakes in Victorian kitchens. His dual role as scientist and businessman ensured that his inventions were both practical and widely accessible, leaving a lasting impact on the food industry.

Born in Chicago in 1901, he co-created iconic characters like Mickey Mouse. He produced the first full-length animated film, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, in 1937. Disney founded Disneyland, the first theme park of its kind, in 1955. He received 22 Academy Awards over his career, more than any other individual. His innovations in animation and entertainment reshaped popular culture. Under his leadership, The Walt Disney Company grew into a global media empire. He died in California in 1966, leaving an enduring family legacy.