Harry Gordon Selfridge

Businessman and founder of Selfridges

Harry Gordon Selfridge - Businessman and founder of Selfridges
Born

January 11th, 1858
167 years ago

Died

May 8th, 1947
78 years ago — 89 years old

Category

Business Leaders

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An American-English businessman played a pivotal role in revolutionizing retail with the establishment of Selfridges in London. Founded in 1909, this department store introduced innovative marketing strategies, including an emphasis on customer experience and influential advertising techniques. The store became synonymous with luxury and sophistication, contributing to modern shopping culture. His concepts changed how retailers interacted with consumers, creating an enduring legacy in the retail industry. Selfridge's vision led to the expansion of the Selfridges brand and set new standards in product presentation and retail space design.

Founded Selfridges department store in London

Pioneered innovative retail practices and marketing

Other People Born on January 11th

Jason Connery

Actor and director in 'Robin of Sherwood'
Born
January 11th, 1963 62 years ago

Born in Italy and raised in Britain, this individual began a career in acting in the early 1980s. Gained recognition for playing the role of Robin Hood in the television series 'Robin of Sherwood', which aired from 1984 to 1986. Transitioned into directing in later years, showcasing skills in various productions. Engaged in both film and television across a range of genres throughout a notable career.

Continue Reading

Joseph Charles Arthur

Pathologist and mycologist
Born
January 11th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 92 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of pathology and mycology. Focused on the study of fungi and their relation to human health. Published numerous research articles that advanced the understanding of various fungal pathogens. Worked at the New York State Hospital and held a position at the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station.

Continue Reading

Alfonso Arau

Mexican actor and director of films
Born
January 11th, 1932 93 years ago

An influential figure in the Mexican film industry, contributions include acting and directing across various genres. Directed the acclaimed film 'Like Water for Chocolate', which received international recognition and multiple awards. Also acted in notable films such as 'The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada' and 'The Mexican'.

Continue Reading

Jerome Bixby

American author and screenwriter of sci-fi
Born
January 11th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1998 27 years ago — 75 years old

An influential author and screenwriter contributed significantly to science fiction through works in both film and literature. Wrote episodes for the original 'Star Trek' series, including the notable episode 'Mirror, Mirror'. Authored the short story 'It's a Good Life', adapted into an episode of 'The Twilight Zone'. Worked on the screenplay for 'Fantastic Voyage', which became a classic of the genre. His creative influences extended to the broader cultural landscape, impacting generations of sci-fi writers and fans.

Continue Reading

Bille Brown

Australian actor and playwright
Born
January 11th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 61 years old

Bille Brown was an Australian actor and playwright, recognized for contributions to theater and film. Brown appeared in numerous television series and films, with significant roles in 'The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert' and the television drama 'The Potato Factory'. As a playwright, Brown's works were performed in various prestigious theaters across Australia. His contributions to both acting and writing made a lasting impact on the Australian arts scene.

Continue Reading

Möngke Khan

Mongolian emperor and military leader
Born
January 11th, 1209 816 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1259 766 years ago — 50 years old

Möngke Khan served as the fourth Great Khan of the Mongol Empire, ruling from 1251 until his death in 1259. His leadership was characterized by the consolidation of Mongol territories and expansion into new regions. Under his rule, the empire witnessed significant military campaigns, including the conquest of the Song Dynasty in China. He played a crucial role in enhancing administrative structures and fostering trade routes across the empire. His reign is often noted for efforts to unify the diverse cultures within the realm and to establish a stable governance framework.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 8th

Dom DiMaggio

Baseball player and All-Star center fielder
Born
February 12th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2009 16 years ago — 92 years old

Played professional baseball as a center fielder from 1939 to 1953. Spent the majority of his career with the Boston Red Sox. Achieved All-Star status three times and was a key contributor to the team's success during his tenure. After retirement, contributed to baseball as a coach and front office executive.

Continue Reading

Chris Cannon

American politician, Congressman from Utah
Born
October 20th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2024 1 years ago — 73 years old

Served as a U.S. Representative for Utah’s 3rd congressional district from 2003 to 2009. Worked on various committees, including the Judiciary Committee and the House Committee on Education and Labor. Championed issues such as education reform and immigration policy during tenure. Lost re-election in 2008, concluding a legislative career focused on conservative values and local interests.

Continue Reading

Kamehameha I

King of the Hawaiian Islands
Born
1738 287 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1819 206 years ago — 81 years old

A warrior and chief, unified the Hawaiian Islands into one kingdom. Established a royal dynasty and a code of laws known as the Law of the Splintered Paddle, which emphasized the protection of the weak. Strengthened trade relations with Western powers and promoted agricultural development, leading to economic growth.

Continue Reading

Neil Bogart

Record producer, co-founder of Casablanca Records
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1982 43 years ago — 39 years old

Co-founded Casablanca Records in 1973, which became a prominent label in the music industry. Produced albums for multiple successful acts in the 1970s including Kiss, Donna Summer, and The Village People. Established the label as a major player in the disco and rock genres. Expanded the label's reach through innovative marketing and promotion strategies, contributing to significant sales successes in the music charts. Led the company until his untimely death in 1982.

Continue Reading

Mauro Giuliani

Italian guitarist and composer
Born
July 27th, 1781 244 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1828 197 years ago — 46 years old

Guitarist and composer originated from Italy. Played a significant role in the development of guitar music during the early 19th century. Contributed extensively to the repertoire for guitar with over 100 compositions. Taught guitar and published several instructional works, which were influential in the education of future generations of guitarists. Also performed widely across Europe, gaining recognition for both solo and ensemble performances.

Continue Reading

Giovanni Antonio Scopoli

Italian physician and botanist
Born
June 3rd, 1723 302 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1788 237 years ago — 64 years old

Contributions included studies in natural history, particularly in botany and geology. Published 'Historia Naturalis' in 1777, detailing observations of various plant species and their classifications. Served as a physician in multiple regions and contributed to the field of medicine with his knowledge of local flora. Conducted extensive research in mineralogy and published 'Silvia Carniolica' in 1760, a foundational work on the flora of the Carniola region, enhancing understanding of European biodiversity.

Continue Reading