Bernhard Baron Inventor, manufacturer and philanthropist Date of Birth: 01.01.1850 Country: Great Britain

1. Early Life and Education
2. Invention of the Cigarette Rolling Machine
3. Business Success and Philanthropy
4. Later Life and Legacy

Early Life and Education

Bernhard Baron was born in 1850 in Brest-Litovsk, modern-day Belarus. His family traveled extensively throughout the Russian Empire but eventually decided to emigrate to the United States to avoid their son's conscription into the Russian army. Despite receiving little formal education, Baron found employment at a tobacco factory.

Invention of the Cigarette Rolling Machine

While working at the tobacco factory, Baron is credited with inventing a cigarette rolling machine. However, some sources suggest that he only improved upon an existing design by James Albert Bonsack, whose machine could produce 200 cigarettes per minute. Baron's machine further advanced Bonsack's design, increasing production to 450 cigarettes per minute.

Business Success and Philanthropy

Baron took his invention to London, where he successfully sold it for £160,000. In 1903, he used these funds to purchase Mme. Carrera's tobacco business. Baron's aggressive business tactics led to the company's prosperity. Simultaneously, he prioritized the well-being of his employees, ensuring comfortable living conditions and establishing one of the world's first company pension schemes. He also contributed generously to charitable causes, particularly in support of medicine and surgery.

Later Life and Legacy

Bernhard Baron passed away in Brighton in 1929, leaving a fortune of £5 million to his son, Louis. His legacy includes the invention of the cigarette rolling machine, his successful tobacco business, and his commitment to social welfare.