February 28

Khosrow II, also known as Khosrow Parviz, ascended to the Sasanian throne in 590. He conducted extensive military campaigns against the Byzantine Empire, briefly restoring Persian dominance in the Near East. His reign ushered in a golden age of Persian art, architecture, and culture, with grand palaces and intricate silverwork. He implemented administrative reforms and strengthened the imperial bureaucracy. Prolonged warfare and court intrigue led to his downfall and assassination in 628, marking the beginning of the Sasanian Empire's decline.

Cosimo II de' Medici succeeded his father as Grand Duke of Tuscany in 1609. He was a key patron of Galileo Galilei, supporting his groundbreaking astronomical observations. Under his rule, Tuscany became a center of scientific inquiry and cultural activity. Cosimo encouraged the arts and established the Accademia dei Lincei as a hub for scholars. His reign was marked by a focus on education and the natural sciences. He died of smallpox in 1621 at the age of 30, leaving a legacy of scientific patronage that influenced European learning.

Isak Penttala was a Finnish politician who served multiple terms in Parliament during the early to mid-20th century. He advocated for social welfare reforms and rural development during a transformative era for Finland. Penttala was known for his commitment to improving education and agricultural policies. His legislative efforts contributed to the stabilization of the Finnish state after independence. Though less remembered today, his steady leadership helped shape Finland’s interwar political landscape. He died in 1955, concluding a long career in public service.

Born June 11, 1930, in Hlukhiv, Ukraine (then USSR). Served as a Soviet diplomat and was appointed Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations in 1973. Worked on arms control talks and represented the USSR at the UN. Secretly decided to defect due to disillusionment with Soviet policies. Escaped to the United States in 1978, shocking both superpowers. Provided key insights into Soviet decision-making for Western intelligence. Died February 28, 1998, in Virginia, leaving a legacy of transparency.

Sir Lenox Hewitt was a distinguished Australian public servant who served as Secretary of the Department of Primary Industry and later as head of the Prime Minister's Department from 1968 to 1971. Born in 1917, he began his government career during World War II and rose through the ranks with a reputation for integrity and administrative skill. He played a pivotal role in shaping agricultural policy and advising prime ministers on national economic matters. After leaving the Prime Minister's Department, he served on various boards, including as chairman of Qantas between 1983 and 1993. For his contributions to public service, he was knighted in 1969. Hewitt's leadership and policy expertise influenced the development of Australian government administration for decades.