March 07

Publius Septimius Geta was born into the powerful Severan dynasty and became Roman emperor in 209 alongside his elder brother Caracalla. His reign was marked by internal power struggles and rivalry with his brother over imperial authority. Educated in the traditions of Roman leadership, he sought to gain support among the Senate and the army. Tensions culminated in his assassination by Caracalla in late 211, after which he was subjected to damnatio memoriae. Despite his short rule, Geta's life reflects the complex dynamics of imperial succession and familial conflict in ancient Rome.

Louis Auguste Le Tonnelier de Breteuil was born into a noble family near Brittany and began his career in the French military. He transitioned into diplomacy and held ambassadorial posts before rising to high office at the royal court. In 1788 he became Secretary of State and attempted financial and administrative reforms amid growing unrest. As chief minister from 1787 to 1789, he counseled the king during the convocation of the Estates-General. Breteuil fled France during the Revolution and lived in exile until his death in 1807, remembered for his role in the monarchy's final years.

Champ Clark was an influential American politician and lawyer who served as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1911 to 1919. He represented Missouri's 9th congressional district for over 20 years and was a leading voice in Democratic Party politics. Clark advocated for progressive reforms, including budget transparency and rural infrastructure improvements. In 1912, he sought the Democratic presidential nomination at the Chicago convention, emerging as a major contender. His tenure as Speaker saw significant legislative achievements, such as the passage of the Federal Reserve Act. Clark's leadership style and eloquence made him one of the most prominent congressional figures of the early 20th century.

Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk was a prominent Austrian-Czech politician, philosopher, and sociologist who founded Czechoslovakia. He led the Czechoslovak independence movement during World War I and became the nation's first president in 1918. Masaryk championed democratic ideals, human rights, and academic freedom, shaping the new republic's constitution. He combined scholarly work with statesmanship, lecturing in sociology and ethics at universities in Europe and the United States. During his presidency, Masaryk promoted cultural and educational reforms, strengthening national identity. His legacy endures as a symbol of democracy and moral leadership in Central Europe.

Jacques Chaban-Delmas was a decorated French Resistance hero and army general in World War II. After the war, he entered politics as a Gaullist and served as Mayor of Bordeaux for over 50 years. He held various ministerial roles before becoming Prime Minister under President Georges Pompidou. Chaban-Delmas championed social reform policies, including expanded social welfare and decentralization. His tenure ended in 1972 amid political tensions, but he remained influential in French public life. He is remembered for his leadership, resilience, and lifelong dedication to public service.

Antony Armstrong-Jones, 1st Earl of Snowdon, was an influential English photographer and filmmaker renowned for his portraits of the British royal family. He studied photography at the Royal College of Art and directed documentaries and feature films. Elevated to the peerage in 1961, he held the title Earl of Snowdon and participated in various public service roles. His distinctive style combined technical precision with emotional depth, making him a sought-after portraitist. Beyond photography, he chaired cultural institutions and contributed to television. His iconic images shaped the public's view of the royal family and continue to inspire portrait artists.

Born in 1947 in Cowdenbeath, Scotland, Helen Eadie was elected as an MSP for Dunfermline West in the inaugural 1999 Scottish Parliament. She served continuously until 2011, focusing on education and environmental committees. Eadie was renowned for her grassroots activism, championing health services and community development. Her calm leadership and dedication to local issues earned her widespread respect among colleagues. She remained active in politics and public service until her passing in 2013.

Born in Alcoa, Tennessee, Swann starred as a wide receiver at the University of Southern California, winning a national championship in 1972 and Rose Bowl MVP honors. He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1974 and made four Super Bowl appearances, winning three titles and earning MVP in Super Bowl X. After retiring from football, Swann transitioned to broadcasting, working as a sportscaster for ABC and ESPN. In 2006, he ran as the Republican candidate for Governor of Pennsylvania. Swann has been involved in charitable organizations focused on youth sports and education initiatives throughout his career.