February 02

Born in 1841 in Northampton, Massachusetts, William C. Whitney began his career in finance, co-founding several banking firms. A prominent Democrat, he served as United States Secretary of the Navy from 1885 to 1889 under President Grover Cleveland. Whitney championed a modern navy, overseeing the construction of steel warships and reforms in naval personnel management. After leaving public office, he returned to private enterprise, investing in railroads and urban development projects in New York. His dual influence in government and business helped shape America's emergence as a global power. Whitney died in 1904, remembered for his bold vision in both finance and national defense.

Born in 1824 in Lyon, France, Henri Germain studied law before entering the banking sector. In 1863, he founded Le Crédit Lyonnais with the goal of providing affordable credit to the emerging middle class. Under his leadership, the bank expanded rapidly, establishing branches across Europe and pioneering modern banking practices. Germain also served as a deputy in the French National Assembly, where he advocated for financial and economic reforms. His innovations laid the groundwork for contemporary commercial banking in France. He died in 1905, leaving a lasting legacy in both finance and politics.

Born in 1876 in New South Wales, McIntosh rose from modest beginnings to become a leading figure in Australian entertainment. He founded major touring companies and brought international acts to Australian stages, boosting the popularity of live theatre. McIntosh also promoted prizefights and built Sydney Stadium, pioneering large-scale sporting venues in the country. His business ventures extended into publishing and hospitality, making him one of Australia’s wealthiest businessmen of his time. Known for his showmanship and marketing acumen, he earned the nickname “the Boy Wonder” in the press. Hugh D. McIntosh died in 1942, leaving a legacy as an influential pioneer in both sports promotion and theatrical management.

Born in 1870 in Pyneville, New Hampshire, Lamont graduated from Harvard University before joining J.P. Morgan & Co. in 1895. He became a senior partner and guided major financing efforts for Allied nations during World War I. Lamont played a key role in reorganizing American railroads and stabilizing financial markets in the interwar period. He served as a diplomatic advisor, participating in the Washington Naval Conference and shaping international economic policy. A committed philanthropist, Lamont endowed scholarships and supported cultural institutions throughout his life. He helped found the Council on Foreign Relations and influenced U.S. foreign policy during a transformative era. Lamont died in 1948, remembered for his leadership in banking and enduring contributions to global finance.

Born in 1906 in Kayseri, Sabancı began trading cotton and textiles early in his career. He founded Sabancı Holding, which expanded into banking, energy, and manufacturing. Under his leadership, the company adopted modern management practices and emphasized corporate social responsibility. He established scholarships and funded educational institutions through the Sabancı Foundation. His vision helped transform Sabancı Holding into a powerhouse of Turkey's economy. He died in 1966, leaving a lasting legacy in business and philanthropy.

Guy F. Tozzoli was an American port authority executive who led the World Trade Department at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.\nBorn in 1922, he coordinated fundraising, design, and governmental approvals for the Twin Towers project.\nTozzoli worked closely with architects, engineers, and local officials to realize one of New York’s most iconic landmarks.\nHe oversaw operations at the World Trade Center throughout the 1970s and 1980s.\nHis vision helped shape the city’s skyline and international trade presence.\nHe passed away in 2013 at the age of 90.

Molade Okoya-Thomas was born in 1935 in Lagos and built a distinguished career in finance and real estate. He served as chairman of the Industrial and General Insurance Company and held leadership roles in various corporations. A committed philanthropist, he funded scholarships, healthcare projects, and community programs throughout Lagos. Okoya-Thomas was instrumental in the creation of the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, a major cultural and conference center. He also supported sports development and youth programs, earning widespread recognition for his civic contributions. Honored by the Lagos State government, he was celebrated for his dedication to education and infrastructure. Okoya-Thomas passed away in 2015, leaving a lasting legacy of service and entrepreneurship.

Bernard Ebbers was born in 1941 in Edmonton, Alberta, and overcame a modest upbringing to enter the telecom industry. He co-founded WorldCom in 1983 and spearheaded its rapid growth through major acquisitions. At its peak, WorldCom was the second-largest long-distance carrier in the United States. In 2002, the company faced one of the largest accounting fraud scandals in history, leading to its bankruptcy and Ebbers’ conviction for securities fraud. He was sentenced to 25 years in prison, serving over a decade before his release. Ebbers’ rise and fall became a symbol of corporate overreach and ethical failures. He passed away in 2020, leaving a complex legacy in business history.