February 22

Mary W. Bacheler was an American physician affiliated with the Baptist medical missionary movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She trained in medicine and chose to serve overseas communities, offering clinical care where few doctors were available. Bacheler established and operated mission hospitals, treating patients with infectious diseases and injuries. She also trained local health workers and advocated for public health measures. Her medical work was intertwined with her faith, as she supported the social and spiritual needs of her patients. Bacheler’s dedication improved healthcare access and left a lasting impact on mission medicine. Her life exemplified the integration of professional skill with humanitarian and religious service.

Zitkala-Sa, also known as Gertrude Simmons Bonnin, was a Yankton Sioux writer and political activist.\nHer autobiographical essays, including 'Impressions of an Indian Childhood', vividly portrayed Native American life and oppression.\nA classically trained musician, she combined Western and Indigenous melodies in her compositions.\nIn 1926, she co-founded the National Council of American Indians to advocate for citizenship and voting rights.\nHer efforts contributed to the passage of the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924.\nThrough her writing and political work, Zitkala-Sa remains a powerful voice for Native American cultural preservation and civil rights.

Albin Prepeluh was a prominent Slovenian journalist and political figure in the early 1900s.\nHe edited leading newspapers, using his platform to discuss national identity and social reforms.\nPrepeluh was elected to regional political offices, where he advocated for labor rights and education.\nHis writings and speeches influenced public debate in the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes.\nHe championed cultural preservation during a period of significant political change.\nPrepeluh's career bridged journalism and governance until his death in 1937.

Born in 1889, Olave Baden-Powell became involved in scouting as the wife of Robert Baden-Powell. She was appointed Chief Guide for Britain in 1918 and later became the first World Chief Guide. Under her leadership, the Girl Guides organization grew rapidly across continents. Olave traveled extensively to promote scouting ideals of character, self-reliance, and service. She worked to support women's participation in youth movements during challenging times. Her dedication helped shape the global scouting and guiding movement until her death in 1977.

Robert Wadlow was an American individual who reached a height of 8 feet 11.1 inches, making him the tallest person in recorded history. His extraordinary stature was due to hyperplasia of his pituitary gland, leading to an abnormally high level of growth hormone. Born in Alton, Illinois, in 1918, Wadlow continued to grow throughout his life, requiring leg braces and a wheelchair in his later years. Despite health challenges, he maintained an active public presence, touring with the Ringling Brothers Circus and attending college. He passed away at the age of 22 in 1940 due to complications from an infected blister. Wadlow's legacy endures as a symbol of human biological extremes and he remains a figure of fascination.

Katharine, Duchess of Kent, was born on February 22, 1933, and married Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, in 1961. She has been actively involved in numerous charitable organizations, focusing on education, health care, and the arts. A trained musician, she often performs as a singer and pianist at royal events. The Duchess has supported causes for children’s welfare and served as patron of several cultural institutions. Her dedication to public service and the monarchy has made her a respected figure within the royal family and beyond.

Otoya Yamaguchi became infamous in post-war Japan for fatally stabbing socialist leader Inejiro Asanuma during a televised political debate in 1960. A member of a right-wing ultranationalist group, he was motivated by extreme political beliefs. Yamaguchi's act shocked the nation and underscored deep ideological rifts in Japanese society. He died by suicide shortly after his arrest, at the age of 17. His actions prompted a national dialogue on political violence and youth extremism, leaving a dark mark on Japan's modern history.

Jonathan Demme directed a diverse range of films that combined suspense, drama, and social commentary. His 1991 thriller 'The Silence of the Lambs' earned him Academy Awards for Best Director and Best Picture. In 1993, he tackled prejudice and illness in the landmark drama 'Philadelphia', starring Tom Hanks. Demme's career also included memorable documentaries and music projects, reflecting his eclectic interests and empathetic storytelling style. He championed innovative cinematic techniques and was admired for his ability to draw powerful performances from actors. Until his death in 2017, Demme remained a respected figure in world cinema.

Born in New York City in 1955, David Axelrod began his career as a political reporter at the Chicago Tribune. He wrote award-winning columns and authored books on urban politics before joining Barack Obama's 2008 presidential campaign as chief strategist. Axelrod played a central role in shaping the campaign's message and was appointed Senior Advisor to the President from 2009 to 2011. After leaving the White House, he founded the Institute of Politics at the University of Chicago and continues to provide political commentary and analysis.

Chris Moyles is an English radio and television presenter who became the longest-running breakfast show host on BBC Radio 1. He started his broadcasting career on pirate radio stations before joining the BBC network. Moyles is recognized for his candid humor, listener interaction, and occasional controversy. In addition to radio, he has appeared on television programs and stage shows. His career spans over two decades, making him one of the most influential voices in UK radio broadcasting.