February 13

Born in 1884 in Salem, Oregon, Gilbert became an Olympic champion in the pole vault at the 1908 London Games. After his athletic career, he founded the A. C. Gilbert Company, pioneering educational toys and science kits. Gilbert introduced the famous Erector Set, chemistry sets, and other hands-on learning tools that inspired young inventors. He believed in ‘learning by doing’ and marketed his products to foster scientific curiosity in children. His dual legacy as an athlete and innovator endures through the continued popularity of his educational inventions.

Born in 1899 in Norway. He built his fortune in shipping and finance, becoming a prominent businessman. Stenersen amassed a renowned collection of modern Norwegian art, championing artists like Edvard Munch. He donated key works to Norway's National Gallery in Oslo. An author on art history, he influenced cultural policy and public appreciation for art. He died in 1978, remembered for his philanthropic impact on Norwegian culture.

Emanuel Ungaro began his career working at Christian Dior before establishing his own fashion house in 1965. He became famous for bold color combinations, fluid silhouettes, and flamboyant floral prints that defined the late 20th-century fashion scene. Ungaro's designs blended meticulous craftsmanship with a sense of theatricality, appealing to celebrities and society figures. Over the decades, his brand expanded to include accessories, fragrances, and menswear, becoming a global luxury label. He was celebrated for his creativity and his contributions to Parisian haute couture. Ungaro remained active in design and mentorship until his death in 2019, leaving a lasting impact on the fashion industry.