This article is written like a personal reflection, personal essay, or argumentative essay that states a Wikipedia editor's personal feelings or presents an original argument about a topic. (December 2011) |
Charles Luckman | |
---|---|
Born | |
Died | January 26, 1999 Los Angeles, California | (aged 89)
Alma mater | University of Illinois |
Occupation | Architect |
Awards | Order of St. John Legion of Honor Order of the Star of Italian Solidarity Horatio Alger Award Henry Laurence Gantt Medal |
Practice | Pereira & Luckman (1950–1959) |
Buildings | Theme Building, Prudential Tower, Madison Square Garden, The Forum, Aon Center, Phoenix Symphony Hall, Conoco-Phillips Building |
Projects | Los Angeles International Airport |
Charles Luckman (May 16, 1909 – January 26, 1999) was an American businessman, property developer, and architect known for designing landmark buildings in the United States such as the Theme Building, Prudential Tower, Madison Square Garden, and The Forum. He was named the "Boy Wonder of American Business"[1] by Time magazine when president of the Pepsodent toothpaste company in 1939. Through acquisition, he later became president of Lever Brothers. Luckman would later collaborate with William Pereira, in which the two would form their architectural firm, Pereira & Luckman, in 1950.[2] Pereira & Luckman would later dissolve by 1958, parting ways for both himself and Pereira. Luckman would continue successfully with his own firm, Charles Luckman Associates. Luckman retired from the firm, although he would still be present.
Aside from his business and architectural work, Luckman did public work that dates back during World War II. He was appointed on the President's Committee on Civil Rights during the Truman administration, as well as being the chairman of the Citizens Food Committee and the Freedom Train; both of which helped out Europe. As a result of his work in Europe, Luckman was honored with the Order of St. John, Legion of Honor and Order of the Star of Italian Solidarity. Additionally, Luckman was an active supporter of public education.
Luckman died on January 26, 1999, at his home in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 89.[3]