Famous German Business People

Oskar Schindler was a German industrialist and member of the Nazi Party who employed 1,200 Jews in his enamelware and ammunitions factories in occupied Poland and the Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia during the Holocaust. Initially motivated by profit, he showed extraordinary courage and dedication in saving his Jewish employees' lives by using his Abwehr connections to protect them from deportation and death in Nazi concentration camps. Schindler's efforts continued until the end of World War II, during which he spent his entire fortune on bribes and supplies for his workers.

Karl Lagerfeld was a prominent German fashion designer known for his influential career in the industry. He worked for renowned fashion houses such as Balmain, Patou, and Chloé before becoming the creative director of Chanel in 1983. Lagerfeld played a pivotal role in revitalizing Chanel's brand image, overseeing all creative aspects from collections to marketing. Additionally, he served as creative director for Fendi and his own fashion label, collaborating on various fashion and art projects. Lagerfeld's iconic style included white hair, black sunglasses, fingerless gloves, and high-starched collars.

Otto Heinrich Frank was known for his work in editing and publishing the first edition of his daughter Anne Frank's diary in 1947, which later became famous as The Diary of a Young Girl. He provided guidance on various adaptations of the diary for theater and film. Additionally, during the 1950s and 1960s, he founded European charities in his daughter's honor and established a trust to maintain the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, the wartime hiding place of his family.

Adolf "Adi" Dassler was a German cobbler, inventor, and businessman who founded the sportswear company Adidas. He was an innovator in athletic shoe design and utilized endorsements from athletes to boost sales. Dassler's concepts led to the growth of Adidas into a major sportswear and equipment manufacturer with multiple factories and substantial annual sales. His contributions to the industry established him as a key figure in the evolution of athletic footwear and apparel.

Rudolf "Rudi" Dassler was a German cobbler, inventor, businessman, and member of the Nazi party. Alongside his brother Adolf "Adi" Dassler, he co-founded the shoe company "Gebrüder Dassler Schuhfabrik" in 1924. After a post-World War II feud, Rudolf parted ways with his brother and established his own company, initially named "Ruda" and later renamed Puma. His entrepreneurial spirit and contributions to the sportswear industry solidified Puma's position as a leading global brand associated with innovation and athletic excellence.

Susanne Klatten is a prominent figure in the business world, known for her substantial wealth and influence. She has built a successful career as a businesswoman and investor, playing a key role in managing and growing her family's business empire. Klatten's strategic decision-making and keen investment acumen have propelled her to the top of the global wealth rankings. As a billionaire heiress, she continues to expand her financial portfolio and make significant contributions to various industries, solidifying her position as a leading figure in the business community.

Jakob Fugger of the Lily was a prominent German merchant, mining entrepreneur, and banker. He expanded the family firm into a successful business operating throughout Europe, with a foundation in textile trade and banking transactions with notable entities. Fugger played a crucial role in European politics by supporting the Habsburg dynasty and financing key political endeavors. His lasting legacy includes foundations in Augsburg, such as the Fuggerei social housing complex, and his influence on trade expeditions to India and the Maluku Islands.

Robert Bosch was a prominent German industrialist, engineer, and inventor known for founding Robert Bosch GmbH. Throughout his professional life, Bosch revolutionized the automotive industry with his innovative developments in spark plugs, diesel engine technology, and braking systems. His company went on to become a global leader in automotive technology and engineering. Bosch's commitment to quality and technological advancement solidified his reputation as a pioneering figure in the industrial sector, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to influence the automotive industry today.

Barbara Orbison was a prominent figure in the music industry, known for her entrepreneurial spirit and contributions as a music producer and publisher. Her work was instrumental in shaping the careers of various artists, and she played a key role in the success of her husband, Roy Orbison. Barbara's expertise and dedication to the industry earned her a reputation as a skilled professional who made significant impacts through her creative endeavors and business acumen.

Carl Friedrich Benz was a German engine designer and automotive engineer known for inventing the first practical modern automobile, the Benz Patent Motorcar, in 1885. He received a patent for this motorcar in 1886 and founded Benz & Cie., the world's first automobile plant based in Mannheim. His company later merged with Daimler Motoren Gesellschaft to form Daimler-Benz. Benz is widely recognized as the father of the car and the automobile industry, making significant contributions to automotive history.

Count Ferdinand von Zeppelin was a German general who later became known as the inventor of the Zeppelin rigid airships. His name became synonymous with airships and revolutionized long-distance flight until the 1930s. He founded the company Luftschiffbau Zeppelin, which played a key role in the development and production of airships. Zeppelin's professional life was marked by his dedication to advancing aviation technology and his pioneering work in creating innovative solutions for air transportation.

Theodor Paul Albrecht was a successful German entrepreneur who co-founded the discount supermarket chain Aldi with his brother Karl Albrecht. Known for his business acumen, Theo played a key role in establishing Aldi as a global retail powerhouse. He was recognized for his achievements when Forbes ranked him as the 31st richest person in the world in 2010, with an impressive net worth of $16.7 billion. Theo's professional legacy continues to be celebrated in the business world for his contributions to the retail industry.

Nathan Mayer Rothschild was an influential banker, businessman, and financier known for founding the English branch of the prominent Rothschild family. With a background in finance and business, he established himself as a key figure in the financial world. Through strategic investments and shrewd decision-making, he built a successful career and became a respected figure in the banking industry. His legacy includes significant contributions to the growth and development of the family business, solidifying their position as a powerhouse in the financial sector.

Stefan Quandt is a German industrialist and engineer known for his significant wealth, with an estimated net worth of US$23.2 billion as of October 2021. He has achieved prominence in the business world, ranking at number 89 on the prestigious Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Quandt's professional endeavors showcase his expertise in the industrial sector, where he has made a name for himself through his entrepreneurial acumen and strategic investments. His success and influence further solidify his position as a prominent figure in the global business landscape.

Carl Laemmle was a German-American film producer and co-founder of Universal Pictures. He played a pivotal role in the early film industry, starting as a distributor and later transitioning into film production. Laemmle's career spanned over 400 films, showcasing his significant influence in shaping the landscape of American cinema. His journey began with nickelodeons in Chicago before establishing the Independent Moving Pictures Company, which later evolved into Universal Pictures Company. Laemmle's legacy as a pioneering figure in the film industry endures to this day.

Dietmar Hopp is a prominent German software engineer and billionaire businessman known for co-founding SAP SE in 1972 along with other former IBM employees. He played a key role in establishing the company and has been a significant figure in the tech industry. Additionally, Hopp is the owner of Bundesliga football club TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, showcasing his diverse business interests. As of September 2021, Forbes estimated his net worth to be US$8.3 billion, highlighting his success and influence in the business world.

Steve Shirley is a pioneering figure in information technology, known for her groundbreaking work as a businesswoman and philanthropist. She is recognized for her significant contributions to the field of IT, particularly in the development of software solutions. Shirley's professional journey is marked by her innovative approaches to technology and her commitment to driving progress in the industry. Her work has left a lasting impact, making her a respected figure in the world of IT and business.

Maria-Elisabeth Schaeffler is a prominent German businesswoman known for her leadership role in the Schaeffler Group, a global industry leader in the production of rolling bearings. As one of the key owners of the company, she has played a pivotal role in its growth and success. Her strategic vision and business acumen have been instrumental in shaping the direction of the company and ensuring its continued competitiveness in the market. Maria-Elisabeth's professional journey is marked by her dedication to innovation, excellence, and sustainable business practices.

Prince Franz Wilhelm of Prussia is a German businessman with a background in the former ruling German imperial and royal House of Hohenzollern. He assumed the title of Grand Duke Mikhail Pavlovich of Russia for a period from 1976 to 1985. Throughout his career, Prince Franz Wilhelm has been involved in various business ventures, leveraging his connections and experience to navigate the business world. His professional life is marked by a combination of entrepreneurial pursuits and his ties to the historical legacy of his family.

Albert, 12th Prince of Thurn and Taxis, is a German aristocrat known for his successful professional ventures. He is a prominent businessman with interests in various industries, including technology and real estate. Additionally, he is an accomplished race car driver, showcasing his passion for motorsports. Albert has achieved global recognition for his entrepreneurial acumen and has been consistently ranked as one of the world's youngest billionaires. His dynamic career trajectory reflects his dedication to business innovation and excellence.

Karl Albrecht was a prominent German entrepreneur known for co-founding the discount supermarket chain Aldi with his brother Theo. Throughout his career, he played a pivotal role in establishing Aldi as a successful global brand. Albrecht's business acumen and strategic vision propelled Aldi to become a leading player in the retail industry. His dedication to providing quality products at affordable prices revolutionized the supermarket sector. Albrecht's contributions to the business world earned him recognition as one of the wealthiest individuals in Germany and worldwide.

Walter Francis O'Malley was an influential American sports executive who owned the Brooklyn / Los Angeles Dodgers team in Major League Baseball from 1950 to 1979. He successfully relocated the Dodgers from Brooklyn to Los Angeles, bringing major league baseball to the West Coast. O'Malley's career trajectory saw him progress from a team lawyer to the owner and president of the Dodgers. He was known for his business acumen, emphasizing stability through loyalty to his employees. O'Malley's legacy includes being elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2008.

Mayer Amschel Rothschild was a renowned German-Jewish-French banker who founded the influential Rothschild banking dynasty. He is celebrated as a key figure in the history of international finance and was recognized as one of the most influential businessmen of all time. Rothschild's professional legacy is marked by his strategic financial acumen, innovative banking practices, and his role in establishing a successful banking empire that had a lasting impact on the global financial landscape.

Kim Dotcom is a German-Finnish Internet entrepreneur and political activist residing in New Zealand. He gained fame in the 1990s as a hacker and Internet entrepreneur, facing legal troubles related to computer fraud and espionage. Dotcom founded the file-hosting service Megaupload, which was seized by the US Department of Justice in 2012. He launched the cloud storage service Mega and funded the Internet Party. Dotcom has been involved in legal battles over extradition to the US on fraud charges, while also spreading conspiracy theories.

Johanna Quandt was a prominent German billionaire businesswoman known for her successful career in the business world. She was a key figure in the automotive industry, playing a significant role in the success of BMW. Her strategic investments and business acumen contributed to her immense wealth and success, making her one of the wealthiest individuals in Germany and the world. Johanna Quandt's legacy as a pioneering businesswoman and influential figure in global business circles continues to inspire many aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders.

Melitta Bentz was a pioneering German entrepreneur known for inventing the paper coffee filter in 1908. Her creation revolutionized coffee brewing by simplifying the process and improving cleanliness. By founding the company Melitta, she introduced specialized paper filters that addressed issues of wastage and enhanced the overall coffee experience. Today, Melitta filters remain a staple in coffee brewing, showcasing Bentz's lasting impact on the industry through her innovative and practical solution.

Wolfgang Porsche is a German-Austrian manager and a key figure in the Porsche family. He holds significant roles within Porsche Automobil Holding SE and Porsche AG as a shareholder and chairman of the Supervisory Board. With a strong background in business, he has made substantial contributions to the development and success of the Porsche brand. Wolfgang Porsche's leadership and strategic vision have played a crucial role in shaping the direction and growth of the company, ensuring its continued prominence in the automotive industry.

Harald Quandt was a German industrialist who, along with his older half-brother Herbert Quandt, managed the industrial empire left to them by their father. They owned a stake in Germany's luxury car manufacturer BMW and the electric battery producer VARTA. Quandt played a key role in overseeing the operations of these companies, contributing to their success and growth. His leadership and strategic decisions helped solidify the family's position in the automotive and battery industries, ensuring the continued prosperity of their businesses.

Johannes, 11th Prince of Thurn and Taxis, was a German businessman known for his role as the head of the House of Thurn und Taxis from 1982 until his passing. Throughout his professional life, he demonstrated leadership and business acumen, overseeing the affairs of the prestigious Thurn und Taxis family. His tenure was marked by strategic decision-making and a commitment to preserving the family's legacy. Johannes played a pivotal role in managing the business interests and assets of the Thurn und Taxis dynasty, ensuring its continued prosperity.

Heinrich Engelhard Steinweg, known as Henry E. Steinway, was a pioneering German-American piano maker. He established the renowned piano company Steinway & Sons, recognized for its exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs. Steinway's professional life was marked by a dedication to producing high-quality pianos, first in Germany and later in the United States. His legacy includes revolutionizing piano manufacturing techniques and setting new standards for excellence in the industry, making him a prominent figure in the history of piano making.

Carl Wilhelm Siemens was a prominent German-British electrical engineer and businessman known for his significant contributions to the fields of engineering and technology. He played a key role in the development of the Siemens company, which became a leading global electrical engineering firm. Siemens pioneered the use of the regenerative furnace in the steel industry and made important advancements in telegraphy and electrical power transmission. His innovative work and entrepreneurial spirit helped shape the modern industrial landscape and establish him as a pioneer in his field.

Günther Quandt was a German industrialist who founded a successful industrial empire that includes BMW and Altana, a car and chemical company. He played a significant role in the business world and was known for his strong financial support of the Nazi Party in the 1930s. Despite controversies surrounding his political affiliations, his descendants were recognized as some of the wealthiest Germans in 2014. Quandt's professional legacy is marked by his contributions to the growth and development of major companies in the automotive and chemical industries.

Ernst Abbe was a renowned German businessman and optical engineer who co-developed various optical instruments alongside Otto Schott and Carl Zeiss. He played a significant role as a co-owner of Carl Zeiss AG, a prominent manufacturer of scientific microscopes, astronomical telescopes, and other advanced optical systems. Abbe's contributions to the field of optics were instrumental in shaping the industry, and his work continues to be recognized for its innovation and impact on scientific advancements.

Axel Alfred Weber is a distinguished German economist, professor, and banker known for his prominent roles in the financial sector. He currently serves as a board member and chairman of UBS Group AG, a leading Swiss investment bank and financial services company. Prior to this, he held the prestigious position of president of the Deutsche Bundesbank and was a key member of the European Central Bank Governing Council. Additionally, he is recognized as a member of the esteemed Group of Thirty, showcasing his expertise and influence in global financial matters.

Corinna zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn is a Danish-German entrepreneur known for her professional accomplishments. She has established herself as a successful businesswoman with a track record of managing various ventures. Her career is marked by a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to innovation. Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn has demonstrated leadership and strategic acumen in the business world, contributing to her reputation as a savvy and capable professional. She continues to make a significant impact in her field through her entrepreneurial endeavors.

Tessy Antony de Nassau is a Luxembourgish businesswoman and non-profit executive. She has a background in international relations and social entrepreneurship. With a focus on women's and children's rights, she founded a consultancy firm that specializes in sustainable business solutions. Antony de Nassau has also held positions in various international organizations, working to promote education and healthcare in developing countries. Additionally, she is known for her philanthropic efforts and advocacy work, aiming to create positive change on a global scale.

Hugo Stinnes was a prominent German industrialist and politician during the late German Empire and early Weimar Republic. He was a member of the Reichstag from 1920 until his death in 1924, known for his influential role as an entrepreneur in Europe. Stinnes made a significant impact in the business world, particularly in industries such as coal, steel, and shipping. His strategic business acumen and political involvement solidified his reputation as one of the most influential figures in European entrepreneurship during his time.

Hans Riegel Jr. was a German entrepreneur who took over the confectioner Haribo in 1946. He led the company with his brother Paul, expanding its reach and introducing new products. Riegel was also involved in sports, winning badminton championships and playing a key role in developing the sport in Germany. Additionally, he was active in the hospitality industry, owning the Jakobsburg Hotel and Golf resort. Riegel's contributions to business, sports, and leisure made him a prominent figure in German society.

Amschel Mayer Rothschild was a German Jewish banker who succeeded his father as head of the bank M. A. Rothschild & Söhne in Frankfurt. He expanded the family's banking operations across Europe by dispatching his brothers to set up branches in Paris, London, Naples, and Vienna. Amschel Mayer was ennobled as a Freiherr (baron) and was known for his close ties to Orthodox Jewish circles, earning him the nickname "the pious Rothschild" among Eastern European Jews.

August Belmont Sr. was a prominent German-American financier, diplomat, and politician known for his significant contributions to the financial and political realms of the United States. He held the position of Chair of the Democratic National Committee for over a decade. Additionally, Belmont was a notable racehorse owner and played a pivotal role in founding the Belmont Stakes, a prestigious event in American Thoroughbred horse racing. His professional endeavors left a lasting legacy in the fields of finance, politics, and horse racing.

Ida Straus was a prominent figure in the retail industry as a co-owner of the iconic Macy's department store. Alongside her husband, Isidor Straus, she played a crucial role in the success and growth of the business. Her dedication and business acumen helped shape Macy's into a leading retail destination. Despite her homemaker role, Ida was actively involved in the decision-making processes and strategies of the store, contributing significantly to its development and reputation in the industry.

Zygi Wilf is an American billionaire businessman and real estate developer known for his leadership in sports franchises. He serves as the chairman and co-owner of the NFL's Minnesota Vikings, overseeing the team's operations and strategic direction. Additionally, Wilf is the majority owner of Major League Soccer's Orlando City SC, demonstrating his diverse interests in the sports industry. With a successful track record in business and sports management, Wilf has established himself as a prominent figure in the world of professional sports.

Marcus Prinz von Anhalt, also known as Prinz Markus, is a prominent German businessman involved in owning nightclubs and brothels. He is known for his opulent lifestyle which often attracts attention from the German yellow press. His professional endeavors include managing various business ventures in the entertainment industry, particularly in nightlife establishments. Prinz Markus is recognized for his influence and presence within the business community, with his activities and lifestyle frequently making headlines in the media.

Tobias "Tobi" Lütke is a German/Canadian entrepreneur known as the co-founder and CEO of Shopify, a prominent e-commerce company based in Canada. He has been involved in key tech projects like the Ruby on Rails framework and has made significant contributions to open source libraries. Lütke's entrepreneurial journey began with the launch of Snowdevil, an online snowboard shop, which ultimately led to the creation of Shopify. His accomplishments include being named "CEO of the Year" and receiving recognition for his contributions to the Canadian technology industry.

Alexander, Prince zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn, is a prominent German businessman known for his leadership as the head of the Princely House Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn. With a strong background in business and management, he has established himself as a respected figure in the industry. His professional life is characterized by strategic decision-making, effective communication, and a commitment to upholding the legacy of the Princely House. Through his leadership, he has contributed to the growth and success of the business, earning recognition for his accomplishments in the field.

Paul Reuter, a German-born British entrepreneur, was a pioneer in telegraphy and news reporting. He founded the Reuters news agency, known for its reliable and timely reporting. Reuter's dedication to providing accurate information quickly established him as a prominent figure in the media industry. His agency's success led to its eventual integration into the Thomson Reuters conglomerate, solidifying his legacy as a key figure in the history of journalism and news dissemination.

Ijad Madisch is a prominent German virologist known for founding and leading the research network ResearchGate. He also serves as a member of the Digital Council of the Cabinet of Germany, advising on digital policies and strategies. Madisch's expertise in virology and his entrepreneurial spirit have positioned him as a key figure in the scientific and technological landscape. Through ResearchGate, he has facilitated collaboration and knowledge-sharing among researchers worldwide, making significant contributions to the advancement of scientific research and innovation.

Herbert Quandt was a German industrialist known for his role in saving BMW from bankruptcy and turning it into a profitable venture. He was a member of the Nazi Party and utilized tens of thousands of slave laborers at his family's factories during World War II, resulting in many casualties. Despite this controversial aspect of his legacy, Quandt's business acumen and strategic decisions within the automotive industry helped him achieve significant success and establish a lasting impact on the German economy.

Carl von Linde was a prominent German scientist, engineer, and businessman known for his groundbreaking work in the field of refrigeration technology. He discovered the refrigeration cycle and created the first industrial-scale air separation and gas liquefaction processes, leading to the development of the reliable compressed-ammonia refrigerator. He founded the company now known as Linde plc, which became the world's largest producer of industrial gases, revolutionizing the global supply chain for these essential materials. Linde was also actively involved in various scientific and engineering associations, further solidifying his legacy in the field.

Cevat Yerli is a prominent video game developer known for co-founding Crytek, a major player in the German gaming industry. He held the positions of CEO and President at Crytek until February 2018. In 2017, Yerli expanded his professional endeavors by launching The TMRW Foundation, a for-profit deep tech organization. His innovative contributions to the gaming industry and his foray into deep tech demonstrate his commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new frontiers in technology and entrepreneurship.

Saygin Yalcin is a prominent Dubai-based German entrepreneur and academic lecturer of Turkish descent. He is best known for founding sukar.com, an e-commerce platform that was later acquired by Souq.com. Subsequently, Souq.com was acquired by Amazon for a substantial amount of $580 million. Through his entrepreneurial endeavors, Yalcin has established himself as a successful business figure in the Middle East region, showcasing his expertise in the e-commerce industry and strategic business acquisitions.

Bernd Pischetsrieder is a highly accomplished German automobile engineer and manager. With a wealth of experience in the automotive industry, he has held various prominent positions in top car companies. Pischetsrieder is widely recognized for his strategic leadership, innovative thinking, and strong business acumen. Throughout his career, he has overseen the development and production of numerous successful vehicle models, contributing significantly to the growth and success of the companies he has been associated with.

Albert Davis Lasker was a prominent American businessman known for his influential role in the development of modern advertising. Starting in Galveston, Texas, he later moved to Chicago and became a partner at Lord & Thomas advertising firm. Lasker revolutionized advertising by creating successful ad campaigns, utilizing radio effectively, and tapping into consumer psychology. He also played a pivotal role in designing innovative strategies for election campaigns, notably the Warren Harding campaign of 1920. Additionally, he was recognized for his philanthropic endeavors.

Martin Behaim was a German textile merchant and cartographer who served as an adviser on navigation to John II of Portugal. He participated in a voyage to West Africa and is renowned for creating the Erdapfel, the world's oldest known globe, in 1492 for the Imperial City of Nuremberg. Through his expertise in cartography and navigation, Behaim made significant contributions to the exploration and understanding of the world during the Age of Discovery, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of geography.

Frank Appel has held the position of CEO at Deutsche Post since February 2008, with his current term extending through October 2022. He has been a member of the Board of Management at Deutsche Post AG since November 2002. Appel's professional career has been marked by his leadership roles within the company, overseeing its strategic direction and operational management. With a strong tenure in the logistics industry, he has contributed significantly to Deutsche Post's growth and success through his strategic vision and operational expertise.

John Werner Kluge was a prominent German-American entrepreneur who achieved great success in the television industry in the United States. He rose to prominence as a television industry mogul, ultimately becoming the wealthiest individual in the country at one point. Kluge's professional endeavors were marked by his strategic business acumen and visionary leadership, allowing him to make significant contributions to the media landscape. His legacy is defined by his innovative approach to business and his lasting impact on the television industry in the United States.

Henry Villard was an influential American journalist and financier known for his leadership in the Northern Pacific Railway. He began his career in journalism and supported political figures like John C. Frémont and Abraham Lincoln. Villard gained recognition as a war correspondent during the American Civil War and the Austro-Prussian War. He later focused on investments in American railroads, acquiring various transportation interests. Villard also owned newspapers like the New York Evening Post, played a role in establishing General Electric, and contributed to educational and charitable institutions.

Carl Hagenbeck was a German merchant of wild animals who revolutionized the concept of zoos by creating enclosures without bars, resembling natural habitats. He supplied numerous European zoos and even P. T. Barnum. Hagenbeck was known for his controversial "human zoos" or ethnography shows, displaying members of "savage tribes." Despite the controversy, his impact on zoo architecture was significant and led to the Hagenbeck revolution. He founded Tierpark Hagenbeck, Germany's most successful privately owned zoo, which relocated to Hamburg's Stellingen district in 1907.

Matthias Rath is a doctor, businessman, and vitamin salesman known for promoting unproven nutritional supplements as a form of "cellular medicine" to treat serious illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and HIV/AIDS. Despite lacking scientific evidence, Rath has been criticized for making false claims and running unauthorized clinical trials that resulted in deaths. His controversial methods have drawn condemnation from medical organizations, AIDS activist groups, and the United Nations, leading to legal action and bans on his activities in certain countries.

Friedrich "Fritz" Thyssen was a prominent German businessman known for his involvement in the steel industry. He played a significant role in his family's industrial empire and was considered one of the leading figures in Germany's business community. Thyssen initially supported the Nazi Party, providing financial backing and political assistance. However, he eventually distanced himself from the party due to ideological differences and disagreements with its leadership. Despite his earlier support, Thyssen's break with the Nazi Party demonstrated his willingness to stand up for his principles.

Emich Kyrill, Prince of Leiningen, was a German entrepreneur known for his contributions in the business world. He served as the 7th Prince of Leiningen from 1946 until his passing in 1991. Throughout his professional life, he demonstrated leadership and strategic decision-making skills that were instrumental in the success of his business ventures. Emich Kyrill's legacy includes his significant impact on various industries, showcasing his dedication to entrepreneurship and innovation.

Maurice de Hirsch was a German Jewish-French financier and philanthropist known for his efforts to support Jewish education and improve the conditions of oppressed European Jews. He founded the Jewish Colonization Association, which facilitated significant Jewish immigration to Argentina. Through his charitable foundations, he made substantial contributions to various social causes, particularly focusing on the welfare and advancement of Jewish communities. His work as a philanthropist and advocate for Jewish rights had a lasting impact on the lives of many individuals in Europe and beyond.

Gloria, Princess of Thurn and Taxis, is a multifaceted individual known for her diverse professional pursuits. She is a successful businesswoman with interests in various industries, a prominent Catholic activist advocating for charitable causes, and a talented artist showcasing her creative talents. Her work reflects a commitment to social responsibility and cultural enrichment. As a noblewoman and socialite, she also navigates the world of high society with grace and sophistication, contributing to the cultural landscape through her various endeavors.

Walther Funk was a German economist and Nazi official who held significant positions in the German government during the Nazi regime. He served as Reich Minister for Economic Affairs and president of Reichsbank, where he played a key role in the mobilization of the German economy for rearmament efforts. Funk was also responsible for overseeing the implementation of forced labor in concentration camps. After World War II, he was convicted as a major war criminal at the Nuremberg Trials and sentenced to life in prison. Funk was released on health grounds in 1957 and passed away three years later.

Reinhard Mohn was a German billionaire businessman and philanthropist known for his leadership in transforming Bertelsmann from a medium-sized printing and publishing house into a global media conglomerate. In 1977, he founded the Bertelsmann Stiftung, one of Germany's largest foundations with a global presence. Mohn received recognition through various awards, including the Knight Commander's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany and Spain's Prince of Asturias Award. His professional legacy is marked by his significant contributions to the media industry and philanthropy.

Anton Flettner was a German aviation engineer and inventor who made significant contributions to airplane, helicopter, vessel, and automobile designs. He served Germany in both World Wars before emigrating to the United States post-World War II as a consultant to the office of Naval Research at the United States Navy. Flettner attended the Fulda State Teachers College and taught high school mathematics and physics in Frankfurt, where he developed ideas that proved useful in Germany's efforts during World War I. Notably, he developed the innovative Flettner Rotor ship, which revolutionized wind harnessing technology for ocean liners, resulting in significant crew and fuel savings.

Alfred Krupp was a prominent German steel manufacturer and inventor known as "The Cannon King" for his role as the largest arms supplier of his time. He revolutionized the steel industry by implementing innovative production techniques and establishing a successful business empire. Krupp's relentless pursuit of excellence and commitment to quality led to the widespread recognition of his products both domestically and internationally. His legacy as a pioneering industrialist continues to influence the steel manufacturing sector to this day.

Klaus Johann Jacobs was a prominent figure in the coffee and chocolate industry. With Swiss citizenship, he made a name for himself as a billionaire entrepreneur. Known for his significant contributions to these industries, Jacobs established a strong presence through his business ventures. He played a key role in shaping the market and was widely recognized for his expertise and influence. Jacobs' professional endeavors and achievements left a lasting impact on the coffee and chocolate sectors, solidifying his legacy in the business world.

Nina Menegatto is a respected lawyer and diplomat known for her expertise in international law and diplomacy. With a focus on resolving territorial disputes and navigating complex geopolitical issues, she has played a key role in representing the Principality of Seborga on the global stage. Her professional achievements include successfully negotiating diplomatic relations with neighboring countries and advocating for the recognition of Seborga as a sovereign state. Menegatto's dedication to upholding the principality's claims and rights has earned her a reputation as a skilled and strategic leader in the field.

Fritz von Opel was known for his pioneering work in manned rocket-powered ground and air vehicles, earning him the nickname "Rocket Fritz." His demonstrations of these vehicles showcased innovative technology and effectively promoted his family's automotive business. These events were not only groundbreaking in terms of technological advancement but also served as successful publicity stunts. Fritz von Opel's contributions to the field of rocket propulsion and his use of these advancements for promotional purposes left a lasting impact on the automotive industry.

Wilhelm Carl Josef Cuno was a German businessman and politician known for his role as chancellor of Germany from 1922 to 1923. He began his career in the civil service and later worked for the Hamburg America shipping company. Cuno's economic expertise led to his involvement in post-war negotiations with the Allies. As chancellor, he focused on war reparations and currency stabilization, but faced challenges due to the French and Belgian occupation of the Ruhr. His passive resistance policy and financial aid efforts during this period contributed to the hyperinflation of 1923.

Barthold Georg Niebuhr was a Danish-German statesman, banker, and historian known for his significant contributions to the study of Ancient Rome. By 1810, he had established himself as Germany's leading historian of Ancient Rome and a pioneer of modern scholarly historiography. Niebuhr's analysis of Roman economy and government inspired German patriotism at the University of Berlin. He was a prominent figure in the Romantic era and a symbol of the German national spirit following the defeat at Jena. Niebuhr's work was deeply rooted in the classical spirit of the Age of Enlightenment, characterized by his intellectual approach, philologic analysis, and focus on both general and particular aspects of history.

Glückel of Hameln was a prominent German Jewish businesswoman known for her successful ventures in various trades, including lending money, trading goods, and managing a large household. Her astute business acumen and financial acumen enabled her to navigate the challenges of the time and amass a considerable fortune. She was highly respected in her community for her intelligence, resourcefulness, and leadership skills, which allowed her to establish herself as a prominent figure in the German-Jewish business world of the late seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries.

Ulrich Bez is a German businessman known for his significant contributions to the automotive industry. He served as the chief executive officer of Aston Martin motorcars until the end of 2013 when he transitioned to the role of non-executive chairman. Under his leadership, Aston Martin experienced growth and success, solidifying its position as a prestigious luxury car brand. Bez's strategic vision and expertise have been instrumental in shaping the direction of the company and leaving a lasting impact on the automotive world.