James Dyson

About

Vacuum cleaner tycoon who invented the first bagless version of the appliance, creating a multibillion-dollar company.

Before Fame

He excelled at long-distance track running not because he was stronger, but because he was more determined than the other runners.

Trivia

His line of vacuum cleaners made him the fourth-richest man in England in 2012 according to Forbes. His wealth was estimated at £3 billion by the Sunday Times Rich List 2013.

Family Life

His wife Deirdre Hindmarsh supported the family on her income alone while he was creating his new type of vacuum. They had three children together: Emily, Jacob, and Sam.

Associated With

He and billionaire Richard Branson were tied for the fourth spot among England's richest public figures.