January 16

Marshall Field was an influential American entrepreneur who established the landmark Marshall Field's department store in Chicago. Born in Massachusetts, he moved west and began his career in retail as a clerk before founding his own business in the 1850s. Field revolutionized the shopping experience with an emphasis on quality merchandise, exceptional customer service, and elegant store design. He introduced fixed prices and money-back guarantees, innovations that became standard in retail. Field also supported cultural and educational institutions, giving generously to libraries and universities. His philanthropic legacy includes funding for the Field Museum of Natural History. Through his visionary leadership, Field shaped modern American retailing and left a lasting impact on commerce and society.

Born in 1923, Glen Bell started his career selling hot dogs and hamburgers in San Bernardino, California. Inspired by the local demand for tacos, he opened his first taco stand in 1954 and later founded Taco Bell in 1962. Under his leadership, Taco Bell expanded rapidly, bringing affordable Mexican-style fast food to millions. Bell pioneered standardized preparation methods and franchise models that became industry benchmarks. He sold the company in 1978 but remained active in mentoring franchisees and exploring new restaurant concepts. His legacy endures in the global reach of Taco Bell and the popularization of Americanized Mexican cuisine.

Born in 1923 in Union Springs, Alabama, Glen P. Robinson earned degrees in electrical engineering before entering the industry. In 1951, he founded Scientific Atlanta, pioneering the development of satellite earth station antennas for global communication. Under his leadership, the company expanded into cable television and broadband equipment, powering media distribution. Robinson emphasized innovation and quality, growing Scientific Atlanta into a Fortune 500 enterprise. He served as CEO and chairman for decades, steering the company through major technological shifts. His contributions helped lay the foundations of modern satellite TV and high-speed internet services.

John C. Bogle was an American businessman and investor best known as the founder of The Vanguard Group. He pioneered the first retail index mutual fund, making diversified investment accessible and affordable. Bogle's advocacy for low-cost, long-term investing revolutionized the mutual fund industry. He authored several influential books on investing, including 'Common Sense on Mutual Funds'. Bogle championed the interests of ordinary investors and criticized excessive fees and speculation. His principles reshaped the financial world and his legacy continues through Vanguard's global reach.