December 25

Helena Rubinstein immigrated from Poland to Australia and then to the United States, where she founded her cosmetics company in 1902. She pioneered beauty salons and developed skincare products tailored to different skin types. Rubinstein's innovative marketing transformed the beauty industry, making cosmetics socially acceptable for women. Her brand expanded worldwide, establishing her as one of the first self-made female millionaires. Beyond business, she was an avid art collector and funded healthcare and educational initiatives. Her entrepreneurial vision and philanthropy left an enduring impact on modern beauty and culture.

Born in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland in 1878, Louis Chevrolet developed an early passion for mechanics and racing. He emigrated to the United States and gained fame as a pioneering race car driver in the 1910s. Chevrolet co-founded the Chevrolet Motor Car Company in 1911 alongside William C. Durant. Although he left the company early due to disagreements, the brand became a cornerstone of General Motors. His technical expertise and competitive spirit influenced automotive engineering and motorsports. Chevrolet passed away in 1941, remembered as a key figure in the American automobile industry.

Conrad Hilton was an American businessman who established the Hilton Hotels empire. After purchasing his first property in Texas in 1919, he expanded aggressively across the United States and abroad. Hilton pioneered innovations in the hospitality industry, including the airport hotel concept and luxury amenities. His vision turned Hilton Hotels into an international brand synonymous with upscale lodging. He authored an autobiography and left a lasting impact on global hospitality before his death in 1979.

Lila Bell Wallace co-founded Reader's Digest in 1922 alongside her husband DeWitt Wallace. Under her leadership, the magazine grew into one of the world's most widely read periodicals. Wallace used her success to support educational, cultural, and medical philanthropic causes. She and her husband established the Wallace Foundation to fund arts and education initiatives. Her generosity and publishing acumen made Reader's Digest an enduring brand until her death in 1984.

Lew Grade (1906–1998), known as Baron Grade, was a Ukrainian-English entrepreneur who transformed British television and film. He founded ATV Midlands and the ITC entertainment company, producing iconic series like The Saint and Thunderbirds. Grade’s business acumen expanded British content into international markets, making him one of Europe’s richest media figures. He was knighted for his contributions to broadcasting and later raised to the peerage. Grade’s productions combined high production values with global appeal, shaping the modern television industry. He remained active in media until his retirement in the 1990s.

Born in Texas, Glenn McCarthy made his fortune in the oil industry during the 1930s oil boom. In 1949, he opened the luxurious Shamrock Hotel, a lavish landmark that symbolized postwar optimism. Known for his flamboyant lifestyle, McCarthy hosted extravagant events that attracted celebrities and dignitaries. He diversified into real estate, banking, and media, shaping Houston's urban development. Despite financial setbacks, McCarthy's vision left a lasting imprint on the city's skyline and culture. Today, his legacy is remembered as a testament to ambition and the American Dream.

James Fletcher Jr. took over Fletcher Construction from his father to expand its reach nationwide. Under his leadership, the company diversified into steel, cement, and masonry, fueling New Zealand's postwar growth. He championed modern building techniques and large-scale infrastructure projects across the country. Fletcher served on public boards, influencing national economic policy and urban development. He received numerous honors for his contributions to industry and community, including a knighthood. His vision and leadership cemented the Fletcher name as a pillar of New Zealand business.

Sam Pollock was a visionary hockey executive born in 1925. As general manager of the Montreal Canadiens from 1964 to 1978, he assembled teams that won nine Stanley Cup championships. Pollock was celebrated for his savvy trades and draft strategies, helping establish the Canadiens as a dominant dynasty. After leaving Montreal, he served in various executive roles in the business world. His impact on professional hockey management is still studied by sports leaders today.

Ghulam Ahmad Bilour is a prominent Pakistani politician and businessman with a career spanning several decades. He has held key cabinet positions, including Minister for Railways, and served multiple terms as a Member of the National Assembly. A senior leader of the Awami National Party, Bilour has been influential in Pakistani politics and development. He is known for his advocacy on infrastructure projects and education initiatives. Beyond politics, he has managed successful business ventures in his home province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Wilson Fittipaldi Júnior was a pioneering Brazilian racing driver and motorsport entrepreneur. He competed in Formula One during the early 1970s and later established the Fittipaldi Automotive team with his brother Emerson. The team was Brazil's first F1 constructor. Beyond driving, he managed racing operations and nurtured Brazilian talent. His contributions helped establish Brazil as a powerhouse in international motorsport.