Leona Roberts Helmsley was an American businesswoman. After allegations of non-payment were made by contractors hired to improve Helmsley's Connecticut home, she was investigated and convicted of federal income tax evasion and other crimes in 1989. Although having initially received a sentence of 4 years, she was required to serve only 19 months in prison and two months under house arrest. During the trial, a former housekeeper testified that she had heard Helmsley say: "We don't pay taxes; only the little people pay taxes." This quote was identified with her for the rest of her life. Helmsley's flamboyant personality and reputation for tyrannical behavior, especially towards her employees, earned her the nickname Queen of Mean.
Leona Helmsley, American businesswoman (died 2007)
On July 4, in the year 1920, Leona Helmsley, American businesswoman (died 2007). This event is recorded as a Notable Births event in the history of July 4, one of 510 recorded events on this date across all of history.
1 notable person is associated with this event, including Leona Helmsley. Learn more below.
Key Facts
- This event took place on July 4, 1920 (AD era).
- It is categorised as a Notable Births event in recorded history.
- Referenced in 1 Wikipedia article.
- 1 notable person is recorded as involved in or associated with this event.
- Wikipedia source last updated on 5 June 2026.
On This Date in History 510
This article draws on content from Wikipedia, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
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