David Buick (1854-1929)is remembered for his association with the automobile industry. The Buick name, which first appeared on an automobile in 1903, remains a vital part of the General Motors (GM) production line. Unfortunately, Buick the man never became as successful as Buick the automobile. Although he was a talented mechanic and inventor, Buick's poor business decisions and his inability to maintain financial stability finally led to his failure as an automaker.

Buick was born on September 17, 1854, in Arbroath, Scotland, the son of Alexander Buick and Jane Roger. When he was two years old, the family immigrated to Detroit, Michigan. Alexander Buick died when his son was five years old, which placed an undue financial burden on the family. Buick attended elementary school, but he dropped out at the age of eleven to help his mother with the household bills. For the next few years, Buick found jobs...