December 29

Born in Philadelphia in 1837, Charles Yerkes became a key figure in the growth of urban transit systems in the United States and England. He consolidated and financed many street railway lines in Chicago, laying the groundwork for the city's modern network. Later in his career, he moved to London and played a pivotal role in building parts of the London Underground. Yerkes was known for his aggressive business tactics and complex dealings with public officials. His legacy includes both the advancement of public transportation and controversies over corporate control. He died in 1905, leaving behind a lasting impact on urban infrastructure.

Tom Shevlin was an American collegiate athlete born in 1883 who earned national fame as a football star at Yale University. Known for his strength and leadership on the field, he became one of the most celebrated players of his era. After graduating, Shevlin transitioned into the business world, where he invested in manufacturing, banking, and real estate ventures. His philanthropic efforts supported educational and athletic institutions in his community. Often called 'The Great Shevlin,' he remained a beloved figure among sports fans. Shevlin died unexpectedly in 1915 at the age of 32, cutting short a life of achievement.

Wilhelm Maybach (1846-1929) collaborated with Gottlieb Daimler to develop one of the first high-speed gasoline engines, revolutionizing automotive engineering. His designs prioritized performance and reliability, setting new industry standards. In 1909, he founded the Maybach company, producing luxury vehicles celebrated for engineering excellence and opulent craftsmanship. Dubbed the "King of Designers" by contemporaries, Maybach's vision continued to influence car manufacturing long after his death. His legacy endures in the modern Maybach marque, a symbol of automotive luxury.

Stephen Birch (1873-1940) studied geology at Columbia University before recognizing the vast potential of copper deposits in Alaska's Kennicott Glacier region. He founded the Kennecott Copper Corporation, securing capital and overseeing the construction of railroads and infrastructure to transport ore. Under his leadership, the Kennecott mines produced millions of tons of copper, fueling industrial growth in the early 20th century. Birch also supported philanthropic causes, contributing to education and the arts. His combination of scientific insight and business acumen left a lasting impact on the mining industry.

Irvin F. Westheimer was born in 1879 and built a successful career in business. In 1904, he founded the Big Brothers movement in Cleveland to mentor underprivileged boys. His efforts laid the groundwork for the national Big Brothers Big Sisters organization. Westheimer dedicated his life to social reform and expanding opportunities for youth. He remained active in philanthropy well into his later years and is remembered as a pioneer in youth mentorship.

Born in New York City in 1936, he joined BBDO and rose to become Chairman in 1986. Under his leadership, BBDO won numerous Clio Awards and became known for creative excellence. He developed iconic campaigns such as the Pepsi Challenge that reshaped brand marketing. Dusenberry mentored generations of advertising professionals and authored books on strategy. His storytelling approach and dedication to creativity influenced global advertising standards.

Hari Harilela (1922–2014) was an Indian-born Hong Kong businessman and philanthropist renowned for expanding his family's trading firm into the global Harilela Group. Under his leadership, the company grew to include over 30 hotels, extensive real estate holdings, and travel services across Asia and North America. Harilela was also a generous philanthropist, supporting medical research, education, and cultural initiatives in both Hong Kong and India. He served on numerous governmental advisory boards, promoting business development and community welfare. Knighted by the British Crown and honored by the governments of India and Hong Kong, he was celebrated for his civic contributions. Harilela's business acumen and charitable foundation continue to influence the hospitality industry and philanthropy in the region.

Pierre Cardin (1922-2020) was an Italian-born French designer renowned for pioneering futuristic fashion. He began his career at Christian Dior before launching his own fashion house in Paris in 1950. Cardin's bold silhouettes, geometric patterns, and innovative materials epitomized the Space Age aesthetic of the 1960s. He popularized the bubble dress and his unisex, modular clothing challenged traditional fashion norms. A visionary entrepreneur, he expanded his brand into accessories, fragrances, and licensing deals worldwide. Cardin was among the first designers to bring high fashion to ready to wear and global retail markets. His enduring influence reshaped the fashion industry and inspired generations of designers.

Vivienne Westwood (1941-2022) was an English fashion designer and key figure in the punk fashion movement. After managing the boutique SEX with Malcolm McLaren, she introduced provocative designs that challenged societal norms. Westwood's inventive use of historical references, tartan patterns, and deconstructed tailoring became her signature style. She built a global brand renowned for its edgy runway shows and outspoken political stances. A committed activist, she used her platform to highlight environmental and human rights issues. Westwood received numerous honors, including an OBE for her contributions to fashion and activism. Her visionary aesthetics and fearless advocacy reshaped the fashion industry and inspired generations.