January 03

Josiah Wedgwood was the founder of the eponymous Wedgwood pottery firm, born in 1730 in Staffordshire, England. He pioneered new ceramic techniques, including fine creamware and jasperware, combining artistry with industrial efficiency. Wedgwood's entrepreneurial spirit led to the first modern marketing strategies, royal patronage, and international exhibitions. He was an early advocate for workers’ welfare, improving conditions in his factories. Wedgwood's designs set standards for quality and elegance, making his ceramics coveted by collectors and royals alike, and establishing a lasting manufacturing legacy.

James Merritt Ives was an American lithographer and print publisher born in 1824 in New York City. In 1857, he joined forces with Nathaniel Currier to form Currier and Ives, a firm that produced popular lithographic prints for the American public. Under Ives's management and artistic direction, the company released thousands of images depicting landscapes, politics, and everyday life. His expertise in color printing and marketing helped the firm become one of the most successful print publishers of the 19th century. Ives's work captured the spirit of his era and remains a valuable record of 19th-century American culture. He died in 1895, leaving a legacy celebrated by collectors and historians alike.

Jack Ruby (1911–1967) was an American nightclub proprietor who became infamous for fatally shooting Lee Harvey Oswald on live television on November 24, 1963. Born Jacob Rubenstein, he claimed his act was driven by grief over Kennedy’s assassination and a desire for justice. Ruby’s shooting of Oswald shocked the nation and raised questions about potential conspiracies surrounding the president’s death. He was convicted of murder in 1964, though his conviction was later overturned on appeal. Ruby died of a pulmonary embolism in 1967 before a new trial could take place, leaving his motives and the broader mysteries unsolved.

Conrad Hilton (1887–1979) was an American business magnate who founded the Hilton Hotels & Resorts in 1919. Starting with a small hotel in Cisco, Texas, he expanded his enterprise into one of the world’s leading hospitality companies. Known for his vision of luxury accommodations and innovative marketing, Hilton pioneered the concept of airport hotels and international franchise operations. Under his leadership, Hilton Hotels became synonymous with quality service and global presence. He also established the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, focusing on humanitarian and youth initiatives.

Koo Chen-fu (1917–2005) was a prominent Taiwanese entrepreneur, diplomat, and political figure. As chairman of the Koos Group, he expanded his family's business into manufacturing and shipping, contributing significantly to Taiwan's economic growth. From 1990 to 2005, Koo served as the first chairman of the Straits Exchange Foundation, facilitating dialogue between Taiwan and mainland China. He led historic talks in 1992 that laid the groundwork for cross-strait exchanges and improved bilateral relations. Koo was admired for his pragmatic approach and ability to bridge political divides through economic diplomacy. He received numerous honors for his efforts in peacebuilding and trade promotion. His legacy is reflected in ongoing cross-strait dialogue mechanisms and Taiwan's dynamic private sector.

William Verity Jr. (1917–2007) was a leading American businessman known for his stewardship of steel manufacturing enterprises and his role in the business community. He co-led several family-owned companies and served as chairman of the Steel Manufacturers Association. In 1987, President Ronald Reagan appointed him as the 27th Secretary of Commerce, where he oversaw trade policy and economic development initiatives. Verity championed deregulation and efforts to expand U.S. exports during his tenure. He brought private-sector expertise to government and advocated for closer collaboration between business and policy makers. After leaving public office in 1989, he returned to corporate leadership and philanthropic activities. His contributions bridged industry and government in a transformative era for U.S. commerce.

Herb Kelleher was born on March 12, 1931 in Camden, New Jersey. He co-founded Southwest Airlines in 1967 and served as its CEO and Chairman. Kelleher championed a no-frills, low-fare model combined with a fun corporate culture. Under his leadership, Southwest grew into one of the largest U.S. airlines with a strong safety record. Known for his charismatic management style, he became an industry icon. He retired in 2008 but remained chairman emeritus, advising the company. Kelleher passed away on January 3, 2019 in Dallas, Texas at the age of 87.