Julius Rosenwald was born on August 12, 1862. At the young age of 18, he was already involved in the fashion world. In 1895, Rosenwald became vice president and owner of one-third of Sears’ stock, then a mail-order-only business. Fourteen years later, Rosenwald would succeed Richard Warren Sears as president of the company.

As president, Rosenwald stressed administration, system and order. Naturally, he also looked for any opportunities that could improve the business, such as looking for long-term merchandising deals with other companies. Rosenwald retained an astute business mind, which led the tycoon to have his store enter the retail store business.

Rosenwald was president of Sears until 1924, when he became chairman of the board of directors. He eventually stepped away from the Sears business to focus on social welfare philanthropy efforts.  

Learn more:
Read more about Julius Rosenwald’s life and his generous philanthropy
Read more about the history of Sears