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Time Magazine
7 hours ago
- Business
- Time Magazine
New Development Could Improve Small Business Owners' Credit
This article is published by a partner of TIME. By Levi King I've spent my life in the trenches of American small business—fixing signs in the Idaho cold, sweating payroll in manufacturing, and later, building fintech platforms to help entrepreneurs like me navigate the labyrinth of credit. So when I read the news that FICO is launching credit scores that finally incorporate Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) data, I felt a jolt of hope and a twinge of caution. This is a watershed moment for credit history in America, and it's going to ripple through every Main Street and startup hub in the country. What This Means for Small Business Owners' Personal Credit Let me break down what this means specifically for small business owners, why it matters for your personal credit, and what you should take away from this announcement. For years, BNPL has been the wild child of consumer finance—ubiquitous, easy to use, but invisible to the credit bureaus. That's always struck me as a disconnect, especially for small business owners who often rely on every available tool to manage cash flow. Millions of entrepreneurs have used BNPL to bridge gaps, buy inventory, or simply keep the lights on. Yet, until now, their responsible use (or misuse) of these products didn't show up on their personal credit reports. FICO's move to include BNPL data in their new Score 10 BNPL and Score 10 T BNPL models is a long-overdue correction. As someone who's seen firsthand how invisible credit behaviors can torpedo a business loan application, I can't overstate how important this is for small business owners' personal credit. Lenders will finally get a more complete, nuanced picture of your financial life—not just the traditional credit cards and loans, but also the BNPL plans you may rely on to run your business. One of my lifelong missions has been to expand access to capital for the underdog—the entrepreneur with grit but no generational wealth, the immigrant starting a food truck, the single mom launching an Etsy shop. Historically, if your first credit experience was with BNPL, you were invisible to lenders. Now, FICO's new models promise to help small business owners build a legitimate personal credit history from day one. This is more than a technical tweak; it's a step toward leveling the playing field. If you pay your BNPL bills on time, that positive behavior will finally count for something. For small business owners who bootstrap with every tool available, this could be the difference between a 'yes' and a 'no' from the bank. One of the biggest risks with adding BNPL to credit scores was always the potential for unfair penalties. If each BNPL plan was treated as a separate loan, someone using BNPL for multiple purchases could look overleveraged—even if they were managing it responsibly. FICO's solution? Aggregate the loans, so the model sees the big picture, not just the raw number of accounts. That's smart. It means the system recognizes patterns and context, not just raw data. I've seen too many business owners get dinged for technicalities or misunderstood behaviors. This approach is a win for fairness and accuracy, especially for entrepreneurs juggling multiple short-term obligations. There's always anxiety when a new scoring model rolls out. But FICO's research shows that for more than 85% of BNPL users, the impact on their credit score will be about 10 points—and for most, it will be positive or neutral. That's huge. It means responsible BNPL use can actually help your personal credit, not hurt it. For small business owners who rely on every point to qualify for loans or better rates, this matters. Of course, missed payments will hurt you. That's always been true, and it's a necessary guardrail. But the days of being penalized just for using BNPL are over. I've been on both sides of the lending desk. When lenders can't see the full scope of a borrower's obligations, they either overreact (decline or price too high) or underreact (approve risky loans). Both outcomes are bad for small businesses. Now, with BNPL data in the mix, lenders can make smarter, more informed decisions. That means more approvals for deserving borrowers and fewer surprises down the road. For business owners, this also means you can finally see how all your credit behaviors—traditional and BNPL—affect your personal score. Transparency is power. This change is a wake-up call for everyone, especially small business owners who often mix personal and business finances (sometimes out of necessity; sometimes out of confusion). If you use BNPL, those habits are now part of your personal credit story. It's time to get educated: understand your payment schedules, avoid overextending, and monitor your credit reports like a hawk. Knowledge is your first line of defense. If you're not sure how BNPL is showing up on your credit, ask. If you're using it to manage cash flow, make sure you're not setting yourself up for a surprise down the road. Here's the bottom line: this is an opportunity. If you're a small business owner who uses BNPL to buy inventory, manage expenses, or smooth out cash flow, you can now build personal credit with those transactions—if you do it wisely. Pay on time, don't overextend, and keep records. This could help you qualify for better financing, lower rates, and more favorable terms. But beware: BNPL is not free money. Overspending or missing payments will hurt your score and your business. The same discipline you bring to your business books, you should bring to your BNPL accounts. A Call for Business Credit Bureaus to Step Up I started my first business in a world where credit was a black box. I learned the hard way that what you don't know can kill your dreams. FICO's inclusion of BNPL data is a long-awaited leap toward a more accurate, inclusive, and transparent credit system, especially for small business owners' personal credit. But let's not stop here. I hope the business credit bureaus are paying attention and will follow FICO's lead by updating their scoring models to include SMB BNPL data as well. Small business owners deserve the same recognition for responsible borrowing on their business credit profiles as they are starting to get on their personal credit reports. This is how we build a stronger, fairer financial future for Main Street—together. About the Author: Levi King is CEO, co-founder, and chairman of A lifelong entrepreneur and small business advocate, Levi has dedicated over ten years of his professional career to increasing business credit transparency for small businesses. After starting and selling several successful companies, he founded Nav both to help small business owners build their credit health and to provide them with powerful tools to make their financing dreams a reality.
Time Magazine
19-06-2025
- Business
- Time Magazine
10 Ways AI Can Support Remote Workers
This article is published by a partner of TIME. By Su Guillory It's become impossible to ignore the impact and potential of artificial intelligence. It's now become a tool we use to organize our lives, do research, and entertain ourselves. Every day, we're discovering new ways AI can make our lives easier and more productive. That goes for remote workers and digital nomads as well. Whether you do your work on a beach in Bali or take video calls while traipsing from one European country to another, AI can be of great use to you as an employee or business owner. Why AI? If you're resistant to allowing this technology to lend you a hand, you might want to reconsider. As a digital nomad, you may occasionally find it difficult to put the same focus on your work while traveling that you do while in the office, but AI doesn't miss a beat. It helps you sustain your business even when you're out-of-pocket. AI also helps you reduce the time spent on repetitive tasks, such as email replies, data entry, or content repurposing. It allows you to serve more clients without taking on more work. And as a citizen of the world, you can also serve clients in other countries without being fluent in their language. 10 Ways AI Can Help Remote Workers 1. Translate Content If you're a digital nomad or working abroad, even if you're fluent in the local language, you may not be well-versed in business or technical terms. Or you may want to offer your services to the local community, and in that case, you'll need to translate documents and marketing materials. Tools like Google Translate and DeepL use neural machine translation (NMT) and large language models (LLM) to translate images and text. You can take a photo with your phone and get the image's text instantly translated, or upload a file through your desktop. 2. Schedule Across Time Zones It can be a pain to try to calculate what time it is in your client's time zone, especially with different daylight saving time schedules. Use an AI calendar tool like Clockwise to find times that work for everyone you need to meet with. You can also add Focus Time when you need to concentrate on your work and not get scheduled for calls with others on your team. 3. Automate Customer Support Rather than hiring a customer service representative for your company, use an AI chatbot to serve your customers, even when you're out of the office. Today's chatbots can do a lot. You can feed them answers to frequently asked questions or set them up to process returns. Most customer issues can be resolved this way, which can cut down on the amount of human interaction needed. 4. Streamline Client Communications If you find yourself writing the same emails over and over again, AI tools like Gmail's built-in compose window can draft emails you can modify. Or you can create templates to respond to common questions your clients or coworkers ask. You can also install AI Mail Assistant to create personalized responses, translate your emails, and correct errors. 5. Learn a Language the Smart Way If Duolingo isn't cutting it in helping you get fluent in a language fast, try an AI-powered language learning tool like Speak. It provides conversation opportunities, and it adapts as you learn. The tool will create a personalized curriculum that helps you reach your learning goals faster. 6. Be a Better Writer In today's business world, flawless grammar and syntax are a there's no excuse for errors with AI! Grammarly can be installed as a plugin you can use with Windows, Google Drive, and even your phone. It corrects your mistakes and makes suggestions for better content. ChatGPT offers a way to polish your writing. Paste what you've written, and the tool can smooth awkward transitions, modify the tone to better fit your audience, or optimize for SEO. You can also take one piece of content—a blog post, for example—and turn it into multiple other types of content, such as a LinkedIn post or an X update. 7. Make Meetings Less Painful Staying connected with your team likely means countless video meetings. You already know that sometimes when you pause to take notes, you miss important information on the call. AI Meeting Notes auto-joins calls on Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet and even takes notes so you can focus on the call. It also automatically creates action items from the call. If you miss a meeting, you can get a 30-second recap. 8. Never Miss a Deadline If your digital nomad lifestyle involves heavy travel, you run the risk of missing a deadline or letting something slip through the cracks. AI tools like Motion take over task planning. The tool prioritizes your most important tasks and helps you balance your workload to ensure you meet deadlines. 9. Research Faster Artificial intelligence is even changing how we research for our work. Rather than Googling a question and then sifting through the results, AI tools like can do the heavy lifting for you. Input a query and you'll get an in-depth response on whatever it is you're researching. It's a great way to get data on your competitors, market, customer behaviors, and trends. 10. Close More Deals If you're an entrepreneur who sells online, you can automate the sales process with AI-driven customer relationship management software. For example, ActiveCampaign can automate workflows and communications so that a lead at the top of your funnel is more likely to buy from you. It uses intelligent segmentation and predictive sending to make sure that every message is sent at the right time to the right audience. Harness the Power of AI for Remote Work These are just a few examples of the myriad AI-powered tools for work. Find the ones that make you more productive, and get back to enjoying that nomadic life. Related Articles: About the Author: Su Guillory is an expat coach and business content creator. She supports women who want to move to Italy. Su has been published on AllBusiness, Forbes, SoFi, Lantern, Nav, and more, and writes about entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, and living as an expat in Italy.
Time Magazine
14-06-2025
- Politics
- Time Magazine
The Top 10 Historic Moments in American History According to AI
This article is published by a partner of TIME. The history of the United States is a narrative of groundbreaking decisions and incredible events, each involving individuals and groups whose vision, bravery, and determination shaped the nation. From the bold actions of the Founding Fathers to the tireless efforts of activists and leaders, these moments reflect the power of leadership and collective action in shaping history. This article, using research assistance from ChatGPT, explores the top 10 defining moments in American history. This list highlights figures ranging from presidents and revolutionaries to grassroots organizers who played critical roles in steering the country through periods of upheaval and progress. These moments offer lessons that continue to resonate today, shaping our understanding of the past and guiding future generations. 1. The Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776) The Declaration of Independence was more than just a call for freedom—it was a bold statement of principles that defined the values of a new nation. Drafted by Thomas Jefferson, the document outlined the colonies' grievances against the British monarchy and declared their intention to form a government based on liberty and equality. It marked the beginning of the United States as an independent entity and set a precedent for democracies worldwide. The act of declaring independence unified the colonies, inspiring them to work together toward a shared goal. Its ideas resonated far beyond America, influencing revolutionary movements in France and Latin America. Even today, the Declaration remains a symbol of the country's commitment to self-governance and human rights. Unified the Colonies: Created a shared cause for independence. Inspired Global Revolutions: Sparked democratic movements in France, Haiti, and Latin America. Laid a Foundation: Set the stage for the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights. 2. The Civil War (1861–1865) The Civil War was a conflict that nearly tore the United States apart, testing the resilience of the nation and its values. It was a war fought over fundamental differences, including slavery and states' rights, and it ultimately resulted in a stronger federal government and the abolition of slavery. The war also highlighted the extraordinary leadership of figures like Abraham Lincoln, whose determination to preserve the Union changed the course of history. The end of the war marked the beginning of a long and difficult journey toward equality and justice for African Americans. Reconstruction, while fraught with challenges, laid the groundwork for future civil rights movements, ensuring that the war's sacrifices were not in vain. 3. The Emancipation Proclamation (January 1, 1863) Issued during the height of the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation signaled a transformative shift in the Union's goals. No longer just a fight to preserve the nation, the war became a moral crusade to end slavery. While the proclamation initially freed enslaved individuals only in Confederate states, it set the tone for nationwide abolition and gave enslaved African Americans hope for a better future. Abraham Lincoln's decision to issue the proclamation also had a profound impact on the Union's efforts, bolstering its moral authority and encouraging African Americans to join the fight. It remains a defining moment in the journey toward equality and justice in America. 4. The Women's Suffrage Movement (1848–1920) The fight for women's voting rights was a decades-long struggle marked by courage, resilience, and relentless advocacy. From the first Women's Rights Convention in Seneca Falls in 1848 to the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920, suffragists worked tirelessly to break down barriers and expand democracy. Their success not only gave women the right to vote but also inspired future movements for gender equality. The Women's Suffrage Movement demonstrated the power of collective action and laid the foundation for advances in civil rights for all marginalized groups. Grassroots Activism: Showcased the power of organized efforts. Expanded Democracy: Brought women into the electoral process. Inspired Future Movements: Advanced ongoing gender equality efforts. 5. The Stock Market Crash and the Great Depression (1929–1939) The stock market crash of 1929 exposed deep vulnerabilities in the American economy, triggering a decade of hardship known as the Great Depression. Unemployment soared, banks failed, and millions of Americans were plunged into poverty. The crisis forced the government to reconsider its role in stabilizing the economy. Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programs brought relief, recovery, and reform, establishing protections like Social Security and unemployment insurance. These measures reshaped the relationship between the government and its citizens, influencing economic policies for decades to come. 6. World War II and Pearl Harbor (1941–1945) The attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 brought the United States into World War II, a conflict that reshaped the global order. The war effort unified the nation, spurred technological innovation, and established America as a global superpower. From the beaches of Normandy to the islands of the Pacific, the U.S. played a decisive role in defeating Axis powers. The war also advanced scientific discoveries, such as the Manhattan Project, which would influence global geopolitics for decades. Defeated Fascism: Played a major role in ending fascist regimes in Europe and Japan. Technological Advances: Accelerated innovation in industries like aerospace. Created Global Institutions: Led to the formation of the United Nations. 7. The Civil Rights Movement (1954–1968) The Civil Rights Movement was a transformative period that challenged systemic racism and segregation in the United States. Through peaceful protests, legal battles, and powerful speeches, leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and organizations like the NAACP pushed for equal rights under the law. The movement's achievements, including the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act, dismantled institutional barriers and inspired global struggles for human rights. It also underscored the importance of perseverance in the face of injustice. 8. The Moon Landing (July 20, 1969) The moon landing of 1969 was a milestone in human history, symbolizing achievement and innovation. Astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to walk on the moon, fulfilling President John F. Kennedy's bold vision. The Apollo 11 mission demonstrated the United States' technological and scientific leadership during the Cold War. It also inspired a sense of wonder and possibility, encouraging exploration and advancements in fields like computing and engineering. 9. 9/11 Terrorist Attacks (September 11, 2001) The 9/11 attacks were a tragic and pivotal moment in American history that reshaped global security and U.S. foreign policy. The attacks led to the War on Terror, increased domestic surveillance, and significant military engagements in the Middle East. Beyond its geopolitical impacts, 9/11 united Americans in grief and resilience. The heroism of first responders and the unity shown by citizens highlighted the strength of the nation in times of crisis. Military Strategy: Spurred U.S. engagements in the Middle East. Security Measures: Increased surveillance and counterterrorism efforts. Global Impact: The 9/11 attacks had profound global ramifications, reshaping international security and diplomacy. In response to the unprecedented act of terrorism, nations around the world united to combat the shared threat posed by extremist groups. The attacks led to the creation of coalitions like the NATO-led mission in Afghanistan and increased collaboration on intelligence sharing and counterterrorism operations. Many countries implemented stricter security measures, including enhanced airport screenings and expanded surveillance laws, fundamentally changing how the world approached border control and public safety. However, the aftermath of 9/11 also created geopolitical tensions, particularly surrounding the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq. While initially uniting nations in solidarity, the long-term consequences of the War on Terror sparked debates over foreign policy, civil liberties, and human rights. Economically, the attacks disrupted global markets and impacted industries such as aviation and tourism, while the costs of military operations and heightened security strained budgets worldwide. The legacy of 9/11 continues to influence international relations, security policies, and global efforts to address radicalization and extremism. 10. The Election of Barack Obama (November 4, 2008) Barack Obama's election as the first African American president was a landmark moment in U.S. history, symbolizing progress in the fight for racial equality. His presidency addressed critical issues like healthcare reform, economic recovery, and climate change. Obama's rise to the presidency energized diverse voters, particularly young people and minority groups. His leadership reflected America's evolving identity and commitment to inclusivity. Empowered Diverse Voters: Energized youth and minority turnout. Landmark Policies: Introduced the Affordable Care Act and addressed climate change. Symbolized Progress: Reflected America's commitment to inclusion. Conclusion on Top 10 Historical Events These ten moments demonstrate how pivotal decisions and decisive leadership have shaped the United States and its role on the global stage. By examining these events, we gain a deeper understanding of the nation's journey and insights into shaping the future. Related Articles: About the Authors: Richard D. Harroch is a Senior Advisor to CEOs, management teams, and Boards of Directors. He is an expert on M&A, venture capital, startups, and business contracts. He was the Managing Director and Global Head of M&A at VantagePoint Capital Partners, a venture capital fund in the San Francisco area. His focus is on internet, digital media, AI and technology companies. He was the founder of several Internet companies. His articles have appeared online in Forbes, Fortune, MSN, Yahoo, Fox Business and Richard is the author of several books on startups and entrepreneurship as well as the co-author of Poker for Dummies and a Wall Street Journal-bestselling book on small business. He is the co-author of a 1,500-page book published by Bloomberg on mergers and acquisitions of privately held companies. He was also a corporate and M&A partner at the international law firm of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe. He has been involved in over 200 M&A transactions and 250 startup financings. He can be reached through LinkedIn. Dominique Harroch is the Chief of Staff at She has acted as a Chief of Staff or Operations Leader for multiple companies where she leveraged her extensive experience in operations management, strategic planning, and team leadership to drive organizational success. With a background that spans over two decades in operations leadership, event planning at her own start-up and marketing at various financial and retail companies, Dominique is known for her ability to optimize processes, manage complex projects and lead high-performing teams. She holds a BA in English and Psychology from U.C. Berkeley and an MBA from the University of San Francisco. She can be reached via LinkedIn.
Time Magazine
14-06-2025
- General
- Time Magazine
The Top 10 Baby Boy Names of All Time According to AI
This article is published by a partner of TIME. Choosing a name for a baby boy is a deeply personal decision that often reflects cultural traditions, family heritage, or even the aspirations parents hold for their child. Names carry profound significance, serving as both a personal identity and a connection to a larger history. Over time, certain names have emerged as timeless classics, beloved for their strength, elegance, or enduring meaning. These names, passed down through generations, stand as a testament to their universal appeal. The top baby boy names of all time have transcended trends and maintained their popularity due to their historical resonance and cultural significance. Many of these names have biblical roots, royal associations, or literary connections that add layers of depth to their charm. These names are not only symbols of tradition but also reflect the evolving values and influences of society. In this article, we explore the top 10 baby boy English names of all time, using research assistance from ChatGPT to highlight their origins, historical importance, and modern relevance. From names that signify strength and leadership to those that evoke kindness and wisdom, this list celebrates the richness and diversity of naming traditions. 1. James James is a strong and versatile name with deep biblical roots. Derived from the Hebrew name "Yaakov," it means "supplanter." Its timeless charm and association with royalty, saints, and writers have cemented its place as one of the most enduring names for boys. Origin: Hebrew Historical Popularity: Frequently used among European royalty and Christian saints Cultural Significance: Represents strength and tradition, often chosen by families seeking a classic name Modern Trends: Continues to be a top-ranking name in the U.S., UK, and beyond Famous Namesakes: James Dean, James Bond, and James Cameron 2. John John, meaning "God is gracious," is one of the most popular names in Western history. Its simplicity and strong biblical connections have made it a staple name for centuries, favored by royalty, religious figures, and everyday families alike. 3. William William, meaning "resolute protector," is a regal and sturdy name of Germanic origin. Its association with kings, leaders, and literary figures has helped it maintain its popularity across centuries. 4. Michael Michael, meaning "Who is like God?" in Hebrew, is a name that embodies strength, spirituality, and resilience. Its deep religious roots and association with the archangel Michael have made it one of the most enduring names of all time. 5. Alexander Alexander, meaning "defender of the people," is a name synonymous with power and leadership. Its association with Alexander the Great has contributed to its timeless appeal, symbolizing courage and ambition. 6. Matthew Matthew, meaning "gift of God," is a biblical name that has resonated with families for centuries. Its association with one of the twelve apostles and the author of the first Gospel has made it a deeply spiritual choice. 7. Henry Henry, meaning "ruler of the household," is a name steeped in royal and historical significance. Its strong yet approachable sound has made it a favorite among parents seeking a name that balances tradition and modernity. 8. David David, meaning "beloved," is one of the most enduring biblical names, associated with King David of Israel. Its universal appeal and strong spiritual resonance have made it a classic choice across cultures. 9. Joseph Joseph, meaning "He will add," is a name rooted in biblical tradition. As a symbol of integrity and loyalty, it has remained a favored name for centuries, beloved for its simplicity and depth. 10. Thomas Thomas, meaning "twin" in Aramaic, is a name that balances tradition with relatability. Its association with Saint Thomas and its use in literature and history have made it a timeless choice for parents. Conclusion on Top 10 Baby Boy Names The top 10 baby boy names of all time represent a harmonious blend of tradition, cultural resonance, and enduring appeal. From the strength and leadership embodied by Alexander and William to the spiritual depth of names like John and Michael, these names carry a legacy that has transcended generations. Whether you're drawn to the regal sophistication of Henry, the timeless grace of James, or the biblical significance of Joseph, these names offer parents a chance to connect their child to a rich history while embracing a bright future. Their lasting popularity is a testament to their ability to inspire, comfort, and endure through the ages. How many of these names are in your family or family-to-be? Related Articles: About the Authors: Richard D. Harroch is a Senior Advisor to CEOs, management teams, and Boards of Directors. He is an expert on M&A, venture capital, startups, and business contracts. He was the Managing Director and Global Head of M&A at VantagePoint Capital Partners, a venture capital fund in the San Francisco area. His focus is on internet, digital media, AI and technology companies. He was the founder of several Internet companies. His articles have appeared online in Forbes, Fortune, MSN, Yahoo, Fox Business and Richard is the author of several books on startups and entrepreneurship as well as the co-author of Poker for Dummies and a Wall Street Journal-bestselling book on small business. He is the co-author of a 1,500-page book published by Bloomberg on mergers and acquisitions of privately held companies. He was also a corporate and M&A partner at the international law firm of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe. He has been involved in over 200 M&A transactions and 250 startup financings. He can be reached through LinkedIn. Dominique Harroch is the Chief of Staff at She has acted as a Chief of Staff or Operations Leader for multiple companies where she leveraged her extensive experience in operations management, strategic planning, and team leadership to drive organizational success. With a background that spans over two decades in operations leadership, event planning at her own start-up and marketing at various financial and retail companies. Dominique is known for her ability to optimize processes, manage complex projects and lead high-performing teams. She holds a BA in English and Psychology from U.C. Berkeley and an MBA from the University of San Francisco. She can be reached via LinkedIn.
Time Magazine
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Magazine
The 10 Most Beautiful Women in History According to AI
This article is published by a partner of TIME. Throughout history, beauty has been celebrated in countless ways, often shaped by the ideals and cultural values of different eras. Yet, certain women have stood out as icons, their allure rising above time and place. These figures, renowned not only for their physical grace but also for their talent, charisma, and achievements, have left an enduring legacy that continues to captivate. The concept of beauty is deeply subjective and multifaceted. From ancient queens and mythical figures to modern icons of cinema and royalty, these women have captured imaginations and inspired admiration. They have been immortalized in art, literature, and film, becoming symbols of strength, intellect, and cultural significance. This article, using research assistance from ChatGPT, highlights the 10 most beautiful women in history based on their physical charm, impactful legacies, and cultural resonance. These stories remind us that true beauty is as much about character, intellect, and influence as it is about physical appearance. 1. Cleopatra (69–30 BCE) First Impressions of Beauty and Power Cleopatra, the last ruler of Egypt's Ptolemaic dynasty, is remembered as one of the most compelling figures of the ancient world. Her beauty was legendary, but it was her intelligence, wit, and charisma that solidified her place in history. Cleopatra is often described as possessing a magnetic presence that captivated two of Rome's most powerful leaders, Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. Historians suggest her allure stemmed not only from her appearance but also her eloquence, strategic mind, and ability to command attention in political and personal settings. Era: Ancient Egypt Famous Relationships: Julius Caesar and Mark Antony Achievements: Strengthened Egypt's power and maintained its independence during Roman expansion. Legacy: Symbol of seduction, intelligence, and female power. Portrayal in Media: Famously portrayed by Elizabeth Taylor in 'Cleopatra' (1963). Cultural Impact: A lasting figure in literature, art, and historical studies of power and influence. 2. Helen of Troy (Mythological) The Mythological Standard of Beauty Helen of Troy, the woman described as having 'the face that launched a thousand ships,' is the ultimate symbol of legendary beauty. According to Greek mythology, Helen's extraordinary looks were so captivating that they led to the Trojan War when Paris of Troy abducted her. However, Helen's beauty was both a blessing and a curse, embodying the destructive power of desire and its ability to alter the course of history. Era: Mythological (Greek Antiquity) Famous Story: Central figure in Homer's 'Iliad.' Symbolism: Represented ultimate beauty and its consequences in mythology. Legacy: Continues to be a muse for countless poets, artists, and writers. Artistic Representations: Often depicted in classical sculptures and paintings. Impact: Highlights the interplay of beauty, conflict, and power in cultural narratives. 3. Marilyn Monroe (1926–1962) Hollywood's Golden Goddess Marilyn Monroe is synonymous with glamour and sensuality, having become a global icon of beauty during Hollywood's golden age. With her platinum blonde hair, sultry voice, and dazzling smile, she epitomized the 'blonde bombshell' archetype. Monroe's appeal wasn't limited to her looks—her vulnerability and charm made her relatable and endearing. Despite her tragic end, Monroe's legacy as a cultural and beauty icon endures. Era: 20th Century Hollywood Famous Films: 'Some Like It Hot' and 'Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.' Legacy: Defined the archetype of the glamorous movie star. Cultural Impact: A symbol of beauty, femininity, and the complexities of fame. Notable Relationships: Joe DiMaggio and Arthur Miller. Tragic End: Passed away at the age of 36, enhancing her mystique. 4. Audrey Hepburn (1929–1993) Grace and Elegance Personified Audrey Hepburn's beauty was defined by her delicate features, radiant smile, and an unmistakable sense of poise. Her performances in films like 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' showcased her as a fashion icon, while her humanitarian work with UNICEF revealed her inner beauty. Hepburn's style—marked by simplicity and sophistication—remains an enduring influence in fashion and culture. Era: Golden Age of Hollywood Famous Films: 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' and 'Roman Holiday.' Legacy: A cultural and fashion icon whose elegance transcends generations. Humanitarian Work: Advocated for children as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF. Signature Style: Renowned for little black dresses, pearls, and minimalist elegance. Impact: Symbolized kindness, sophistication, and timeless beauty. 5. Princess Diana (1961–1997) The People's Princess Princess Diana's beauty extended beyond her physical appearance—her compassion, humility, and ability to connect with people made her a beloved global figure. Known for her radiant smile and graceful demeanor, Diana's humanitarian efforts, including her work to destigmatize AIDS and ban landmines, highlighted her empathy and courage. Her tragic death only amplified her legacy as an icon of beauty and kindness. 6. Elizabeth Taylor (1932–2011) A Beauty That Defined an Era Elizabeth Taylor was a Hollywood icon celebrated for her stunning violet eyes and striking facial features. Her beauty, combined with a captivating screen presence, made her one of the most recognizable faces of her time. Taylor's charisma and flair for dramatic roles further solidified her as a cultural icon. Beyond her acting prowess, she was admired for her pioneering humanitarian work, particularly in the fight against AIDS, showcasing a compassionate heart behind her glamorous exterior. 7. Queen Nefertiti (1370–1330 BCE) Timeless Beauty in Art and Leadership Queen Nefertiti of ancient Egypt is often regarded as one of history's most beautiful and influential women. Her iconic bust, unearthed in 1912, immortalized her symmetrical features and serene expression. Beyond her physical allure, Nefertiti was a powerful queen who played a significant role in Egypt's religious transformation during her husband Pharaoh Akhenaten's reign. Her beauty and leadership symbolize strength, grace, and sophistication. Era: Ancient Egypt Famous Bust: Preserved at the Neues Museum in Berlin, widely regarded as a masterpiece of ancient art. Legacy: A powerful queen who influenced Egypt's cultural and religious landscape. Impact: Represented elegance and political influence, inspiring admiration for centuries. Cultural Significance: Emblematic of ancient royalty and feminine power. 8. Grace Kelly (1929–1982) From Hollywood Royalty to Actual Royalty Grace Kelly epitomized refinement and class, moving from a celebrated Hollywood actress to Princess of Monaco. Her natural beauty and elegance made her a style icon, while her humanitarian work as a royal demonstrated her kind-hearted nature. Known for her timeless fashion and poise, Kelly's life story continues to captivate, blending the glamour of Hollywood with the traditions of European royalty. Era: 20th Century Hollywood and Monacan Royalty Famous Films: 'To Catch a Thief' and 'Rear Window.' Legacy: Ascended from a celebrated actress to a beloved princess. Style Icon: Revered for her classic and effortless sense of fashion. Charitable Work: Advocated for arts and children's welfare in Monaco. Tragic End: Passed away in a car accident, leaving a legacy of grace and philanthropy. 9. Sophia Loren (1934–Present) The Epitome of Mediterranean Allure Sophia Loren is celebrated as one of Italy's most glamorous and talented actresses. Her natural beauty, fiery charisma, and curvaceous figure redefined conventional beauty standards in her era. Loren's powerful performances and her confident embrace of her Mediterranean heritage made her a global icon of elegance and passion. She is admired not only for her stunning looks but also for her dedication to her craft and her embodiment of authentic beauty. Era: 20th Century Cinema Famous Films: 'Two Women' and 'Marriage Italian Style.' Awards: Academy Award for Best Actress for 'Two Women.' Legacy: Redefined beauty standards with her natural and confident demeanor. Cultural Impact: A lasting symbol of Italian cinema and Mediterranean pride. Impact on Beauty Standards: Showed the world the allure of authenticity and confidence. 10. Mata Hari (1876–1917) Mystery, Seduction, and Tragic Beauty Mata Hari, born Margaretha Geertruida Zelle, captivated audiences as an exotic dancer and courtesan during the early 20th century. Known for her enigmatic beauty and charm, she became an international sensation. Later accused of espionage during World War I, her life took a tragic turn when she was executed. Mata Hari's beauty was intertwined with her mysterious persona, making her an enduring figure of intrigue and seduction. Conclusion on Beautiful Women The 10 most beautiful women in history represent a fascinating intersection of physical allure, personal strength, and cultural impact. From Cleopatra's political savvy and Marilyn Monroe's captivating vulnerability to Princess Diana's compassionate heart and Sophia Loren's confident authenticity, their beauty extends far beyond mere appearance to reflect character, influence, and legacy. These women remain timeless icons, inspiring countless others through their accomplishments and the indelible marks they left on the world. They remind us that true beauty is not only seen but felt—in the power of their presence, the scope of their contributions, and the legacy they've passed on to generations to come. About the Author: Richard D. Harroch is a Senior Advisor to CEOs, management teams, and Boards of Directors. He is an expert on M&A, venture capital, startups, and business contracts. He was the Managing Director and Global Head of M&A at VantagePoint Capital Partners, a venture capital fund in the San Francisco area. His focus is on internet, digital media, AI and technology companies. He was the founder of several Internet companies. His articles have appeared online in Forbes, Fortune, MSN, Yahoo, Fox Business and Richard is the author of several books on startups and entrepreneurship as well as the co-author of Poker for Dummies and a Wall Street Journal-bestselling book on small business. He is the co-author of a 1,500-page book published by Bloomberg on mergers and acquisitions of privately held companies. He was also a corporate and M&A partner at the international law firm of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe. He has been involved in over 200 M&A transactions and 250 startup financings. He can be reached through LinkedIn.
