Henry Birks

Canadian businessman, founder of Birks

Henry Birks - Canadian businessman, founder of Birks
Born

November 30th, 1840
184 years ago

Died

April 16th, 1928
97 years ago — 87 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Canada

Links & References

Founded Henry Birks and Sons, a prominent Canadian jewelry company. Established the business in Montreal, creating a legacy in the luxury retail space. The company gained a reputation for high-quality jewelry and watchmaking. Expanded operations across Canada, offering a range of fine goods and services. Played a significant role in the development of luxury retail in Canada.

Founded Henry Birks and Sons in Montreal

Transformed Canadian luxury retail market

Other People Born on November 30th

Sam Gilliam

American painter and educator
Born
November 30th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent American painter and educator contributed significantly to the abstract art movement. Developed a unique style through the use of draped paintings that challenged traditional canvas formats. Served as an educator, inspiring future generations of artists. Participated in various exhibitions, including the Venice Biennale in 1972, gaining international recognition.

Continue Reading

Teresa Gisbert Carbonell

Bolivian architect and art historian
Born
November 30th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 92 years old

Born in Bolivia, contributed significantly to the fields of architecture and art history. Played a crucial role in the preservation of heritage sites and the promotion of Bolivian art. Served as a professor at the Universidad Mayor de San Andrés in La Paz. Authored several influential texts on architecture, including analyses of pre-Columbian, colonial, and modern architecture in Bolivia.

Continue Reading

Johann IV Roth

Roman Catholic bishop and theologian
Born
November 30th, 1426 598 years ago
Died
1506 519 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1426, served as a prominent Roman Catholic bishop. Oversaw various ecclesiastical duties and contributed to theological discussions of the time. Worked within the Church during a period marked by significant religious change and development. His leadership focused on pastoral care and the promotion of Church teachings. His tenure included efforts to guide the faithful amid evolving religious landscapes.

Continue Reading

Joseph Corré

Fashion designer, co-founder of Agent Provocateur
Born
November 30th, 1967 57 years ago

An English fashion designer and businessman co-founded the lingerie brand Agent Provocateur in 1994, which became celebrated for its provocative and luxurious designs. The brand quickly gained a reputation for pushing boundaries in the fashion industry, combining eroticism with high fashion aesthetics. Through innovative marketing campaigns and distinctive product lines, the brand captured significant attention and expanded internationally, becoming a staple in exclusive lingerie. Additionally, involved in various philanthropic endeavors, focusing particularly on social issues and artistic endeavors.

Continue Reading

Phil Willis

English politician and member of parliament
Born
November 30th, 1941 83 years ago

Served as a Member of Parliament for Harrogate and Knaresborough from 1997 to 2010. Held the title of Baron Willis of Knaresborough and contributed to various committees during tenure. Advocated for educational improvements and was involved in the promotion of science and technology initiatives.

Continue Reading

Gustav Suits

Poet and politician from Estonia
Born
November 30th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1956 69 years ago — 72 years old

Born in Estonia in 1883, Suits was a prominent poet and a notable political figure. Active in the Estonian independence movement, he participated in cultural and political discussions that shaped the national identity. Suits published a number of influential poetry collections, showcasing themes of nature, love, and nationalism. His literary contributions extended to essays and articles that furthered the discourse on Estonian culture. He also held various public office positions, contributing to the development of Estonian society during a pivotal period. His works continue to be studied in the context of Estonian literature and history.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 16th

Bernadette Soubirous

French nun and saint of Lourdes
Born
January 7th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1879 146 years ago — 35 years old

Born in 1844, this individual became a nun and gained attention after experiencing visions of the Virgin Mary in a grotto in Lourdes, France. These apparitions led to the site becoming a major place of pilgrimage. This individual spent most of life in a convent and devoted years serving in a religious capacity. Canonized as a saint in 1933, her life story and the events at Lourdes have inspired countless faithful and are central to Catholic devotion.

Continue Reading

Sydney Chaplin

English actor in silent films
Born
March 16th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1965 60 years ago — 80 years old

Born in England, one of the prominent figures in the silent film era. Chaplin appeared in many films, becoming well known for his roles in comedies. Gained recognition for performances that showcased physical comedy and expressive acting skill. Collaborated with his brother, Charlie Chaplin, on multiple projects, contributing to the growth of film as a medium for storytelling. Later transitioned to stage performances, demonstrating versatility in both film and theater.

Continue Reading

Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller

Danish businessman and shipping magnate
Born
July 13th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
April 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 98 years old

A prominent businessman in Denmark, led the A.P. Moller-Maersk Group, one of the largest shipping and logistics companies in the world. Oversaw the expansion of the company that became a leading player in global trade. Invested in various industries including shipping, oil, and retail. Focused on sustainable business practices and corporate responsibility. Contributed to the development of Danish industry and international trade.

Continue Reading

Adelaide del Vasto

Regent of Sicily, mother of a king
Died
April 16th, 1118 907 years ago — None years old

Regent of Sicily during the early 12th century, served as a significant figure in the Norman rule of the region. Mother to Roger II of Sicily, who became the first king of Sicily. Married Baldwin I of Jerusalem, further intertwining the Norman and Crusader realms. Played a crucial role in consolidating power in Sicily and the Mediterranean through her lineage and political alliances.

Continue Reading

Emilio Jacinto

Filipino journalist and activist
Born
December 15th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1899 126 years ago — 23 years old

A prominent figure in the Philippine Revolution, contributed significantly to the fight against Spanish colonial rule. Served as editor of the revolutionary newspaper Kalayaan. Authored the influential essays 'Liwanag at Dilim' and 'A La Patria'. Joined the Katipunan, a secret society that sought independence, and played a crucial role in its activities. Died at a young age during the conflict, leaving a lasting legacy in the pursuit of Philippine independence.

Continue Reading

Ali Kafi

Algerian politician and President
Born
October 7th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
April 16th, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old

Served as President of the Transitional Council of Algeria from 1992 to 1994. Kafi played a significant role in the political landscape of Algeria during a turbulent period following the cancellation of elections in 1991 that led to civil strife. After the resignation of the previous president, Kafi took office with the aim of restoring stability and navigating the country through a difficult transition. He was involved in establishing new political structures and engaging various factions in the effort to end the civil conflict. His presidency was marked by efforts to contain violence and promote dialogue among political groups.

Continue Reading