January 11

Born in Nottingham in 1763, Molson emigrated to Montreal in 1782 and established a small brewery that grew into North America's oldest continuous brewing enterprise. He expanded into transportation by launching the first steam-powered vessel on the St. Lawrence River and investing in railroads. Molson also helped found the Bank of Montreal, shaping early Canadian finance. A philanthropist and civic leader, he supported educational and charitable institutions, leaving a lasting legacy on Canada's industrial growth.

Born in England in 1812, Stuart Donaldson emigrated to Australia and built a successful mercantile career in Sydney. He entered politics and was elected to the New South Wales Legislative Council. In 1856, he became the first Premier of New South Wales under responsible government. During his tenure, he navigated early challenges of self-governance and infrastructure development. Donaldson also served in the Legislative Assembly and influenced financial reforms. He died in 1867, leaving a legacy as a foundational figure in the formation of modern Australian governance.

Born in 1815 in Upper Canada, William Sawyer built a successful merchant enterprise in Brockville, importing and exporting goods along the St. Lawrence River. He entered politics and was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, representing Leeds North and Grenville North. Sawyer championed infrastructure improvements and the interests of rural entrepreneurs. His commercial background informed his support for trade policies and community development. After leaving office, he continued his business and philanthropic activities, contributing to local institutions. He died in 1904, remembered as both a shrewd businessman and dedicated public servant.

Born in 1842 to the family behind Carlsberg Brewery, Carl Jacobsen expanded the business into an international brand. He developed a passion for art and collected classical and modern sculptures. In 1888, he established the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, donating his personal collection and funding the museum's construction. Jacobsen also supported public art installations and funded restoration projects across Denmark. His philanthropic efforts extended to scientific research and technical education. Jacobsen's dual legacy as a brewer and cultural benefactor shaped both industry and the arts. He died in 1914, leaving a lasting impact on Danish heritage.

Roberta Fulbright was an American businesswoman who took the helm of her family's newspaper in Arkansas. After her husband’s untimely death, she managed the Arkansas Democrat for over forty years. Under her leadership, the paper grew in circulation and influence, covering key political and social issues of the day. Fulbright championed women's roles in business and advocated for civic improvements in her community. She also supported charitable causes and local education initiatives. Her pioneering career set a precedent for women in the publishing industry before her death in 1953.

Born in 1911 in New York, Ivan Combe was a pioneering businessman and chemist who co-founded Combe Incorporated. In 1950, he introduced Clearasil, the first mass-marketed benzoyl peroxide acne treatment that became a household name. Under his leadership, Combe Inc. expanded its portfolio to include a variety of personal care brands, transforming the skincare industry. He was renowned for innovative marketing strategies and a strong focus on research and development. Combe held several patents and mentored future entrepreneurs. Active in philanthropy, he supported educational initiatives and medical research. He died in 2000, leaving a lasting legacy in personal care products.

Carl Karcher started with a single hot dog cart in Los Angeles in 1941. Over decades, he expanded his family business into the Carl's Jr. restaurant chain. He emphasized quality ingredients and franchising to fuel growth. Under his leadership, the chain became one of America's largest burger brands. Karcher was also known for his community involvement and philanthropic activities.

Edgar Kaiser Jr. served as president of the Kaiser Foundation Hospitals, steering growth and modernization. He held executive roles in aerospace and construction businesses before joining his family's enterprises. Kaiser championed arts, education, and healthcare philanthropy across North America. He helped establish community foundations and cultural institutions. His leadership left a lasting impact on the nonprofit and business sectors.

Guido Forti (1940–2013) was an Italian entrepreneur who established the Forti Racing Team to compete in Formula One. Under his leadership, the team participated in the early 1990s Grand Prix circuits, providing a platform for emerging drivers and engineers. Although the team faced financial challenges, Forti's passion for motorsport drove his commitment to international racing. His efforts contributed to Italy's rich legacy in motorsports and inspired many within the racing community.