July 04

Born in AD 68, Salonia Matidia was a prominent figure in the Nerva–Antonine dynasty. As the daughter of Ulpia Marciana and niece of Emperor Trajan, she held significant influence in Roman society. She maintained close ties with the imperial family and was honored with the prestigious title of Augusta. Matidia was known for her charitable works and patronage of public building projects. Her legacy continued through her descendants, who occupied key roles in the empire. Despite the male-dominated structure of Roman politics, her position exemplified the power of imperial women. She died in AD 119, leaving a lasting mark on Roman history.

Thomas John Barnardo was a British philanthropist dedicated to improving the lives of destitute children in Victorian England. In 1867, he opened his first shelter in London, offering education, medical care, and vocational training to orphans. Barnardo pioneered child placement schemes, sending young people to families in rural areas for better prospects. His organization expanded into a vast network of homes and care facilities, becoming one of the world’s most influential child welfare charities. Despite facing legal and social challenges, he remained steadfast in his mission to protect and empower children. His legacy endures through the charity that still bears his name, supporting vulnerable youth across the UK.

Gertrude Weaver became a centenarian role model after reaching her 115th birthday in 2013. Born in Arkansas, she later moved to Alabama, where she lived independently well into her final years. Following the death of Dina Manfredini, Weaver was recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest living person at 116. She credited her longevity to a diet rich in vegetables and a lifelong love of church and family gatherings. Weaver's longevity spanned three centuries, and she remained mentally sharp and sociable until her passing in April 2015. Her life story continues to inspire those interested in aging and wellness.

Belinda Dann was one of the thousands of Aboriginal children forcibly removed from their families under Australia's Stolen Generation policies. Born in 1900, she was taken from her community as a young child and placed in government care, losing contact with her heritage. In a remarkable turn of events, she rediscovered her remaining family at the age of 107, highlighting the resilience of Australia's Indigenous peoples. Dann spent her final years advocating informally for recognition of the Stolen Generation's trauma. Her reunion story drew national attention, serving as a powerful reminder of the enduring strength of family bonds and the importance of cultural reconciliation.

Meyer Lansky was born in 1902 in Grodno, Russian Empire, and emigrated to the United States with his family in childhood. He became a close associate of Lucky Luciano and was instrumental in organizing the National Crime Syndicate. Lansky managed gambling operations nationwide and extended syndicate influence to Cuba and the Bahamas. Known for his financial acumen, he earned the nickname Mob's Accountant and was respected for his low profile. Despite numerous investigations, he avoided major convictions and maintained power behind the scenes. He spent his later years in Miami Beach and died in 1983.

Elizabeth Peratrovich, a member of the Tlingit nation, championed equality for Alaska Natives in the early 1940s. After experiencing blatant discrimination firsthand, she and her husband, Roy, testified before the Alaska Territorial Legislature, making a compelling case that led to the passage of the nation’s first anti-discrimination law in 1945. Her courage and advocacy paved the way for civil rights advancements in Alaska. Today, she is honored with a commemorative day and a portrait in the Alaska State Capitol, celebrating her enduring legacy.

Nuccio Bertone took over his family’s coachbuilding business in Turin and turned Carrozzeria Bertone into a world-renowned design house. Under his leadership, the firm produced groundbreaking concept and production cars, including the Lamborghini Miura, Alfa Romeo BAT series, and the Fiat X1/9. Bertone’s emphasis on sleek, avant-garde styling influenced generations of automotive design. He collaborated with brands such as Ferrari, Lancia, and Ford, leaving a legacy of innovation that still resonates in the industry today.

Iva Toguri D’Aquino, an American citizen trapped in Japan during World War II, became associated with the Tokyo Rose broadcasts despite her efforts to avoid propaganda. Using the name 'Orphan Ann', she delivered news and music to Allied troops. After the war, she faced a controversial treason trial and was convicted, but supporters argued the evidence was flawed. In 1977, President Gerald Ford granted her a full pardon, acknowledging her unjust treatment. Her story highlights the complexities of wartime justice.

Born Esther Pauline Friedman, Eppie Lederer became famous under the pen name Ann Landers, offering practical and empathetic advice on personal issues starting in 1955. Her column, syndicated in over a thousand newspapers, tackled topics from family relationships to social etiquette. She published several bestselling books compiling her columns and was celebrated for her wit and humanity. Lederer’s work influenced public discourse and solidified the advice column as a staple of American journalism for nearly five decades.

Brian Willson is an American former soldier born in 1941 who served in the Vietnam War and later became a lawyer and peace activist. After witnessing the impact of war, he dedicated his life to raising awareness about veterans’ rights and environmental issues. In 1987, he was critically injured while protesting a nuclear weapons train, an event that galvanized his activism. He co-founded the Vietnam Veterans for Peace and has lectured widely on nonviolent resistance. His legal work and public speaking have influenced the peace movement in the United States.

Prince Michael of Kent is a member of the British royal family born in 1942, the youngest child of Prince George, Duke of Kent. He served in the Royal Air Force and has undertaken numerous official duties on behalf of the monarchy. A keen linguist and skilled pilot, he represents the Queen at events in Europe and the Commonwealth. He is a patron of various charities focused on education and the arts. His behind-the-scenes diplomatic efforts have fostered cultural and business relations worldwide.