August 19

Eustace Budgell (1686–1737) was an English journalist and politician best known for his contributions to The Spectator under Addison and Steele. He held roles as a commissioner of appeals and served in Parliament, influencing early 18th-century public affairs. Budgell’s witty essays helped shape periodical literature and the development of modern journalism. His political career, however, was overshadowed by financial troubles and personal controversies. Tragically, he ended his life in 1737 amid mounting debts and declining fortunes. His work remains a window into the literary and political culture of Georgian England.

Charles-François de Broglie, marquis de Ruffec (1719–1781), was a French aristocrat and military officer. He served in the War of Austrian Succession and distinguished himself in several key campaigns. Later appointed as a diplomat, he negotiated treaties and represented France in European courts. Renowned for his courtly grace and political skill, he maintained strong ties with royal favorites. As marquis de Ruffec, he balanced military service with diplomatic responsibilities. His career exemplified the intertwining of nobility and statecraft in pre-revolutionary France.

Jeanne Bécu, Comtesse du Barry (1743–1793), commonly known as Madame du Barry, rose from humble origins to become the official mistress of Louis XV. She wielded significant influence at the French court, patronizing artists and shaping fashion trends. Her lavish lifestyle and political intrigues made her both celebrated and controversial among the nobility. After the king’s death, she faced exile and financial hardship before being arrested during the French Revolution. She was executed by guillotine in 1793, symbolizing the fall of the ancien régime. Madame du Barry’s life story remains emblematic of 18th-century court intrigues and excess.

Rose Heilbron (1914–2005) was a trailblazing British lawyer who broke gender barriers in the legal profession. In 1949, she became one of the first women appointed King’s Counsel, and in 1972 she was the first woman to sit as a judge at London’s Old Bailey. Heilbron handled high-profile criminal cases and was celebrated for her sharp legal mind and unwavering commitment to justice. She also served as Recorder in multiple jurisdictions, mentoring young lawyers along the way. Beyond the courtroom, she advocated for gender equality within the judiciary and inspired generations of female legal professionals. Heilbron’s career paved the way for women in law and left a lasting legacy of excellence and fairness.

Ring Lardner Jr. (1915–2000) was an acclaimed American screenwriter and journalist, best known for winning the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for the film Marty. The son of famed columnist Ring Lardner, he began his career writing sports articles before moving to Hollywood. In 1947, he was blacklisted as one of the Hollywood Ten after refusing to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee. Despite the blacklist, he continued writing under pseudonyms and returned to prominence by winning an Oscar in 1955. Lardner’s resilience and sharp wit made him a respected figure in film and journalism. He remained a vocal advocate for artistic freedom and civil liberties throughout his life.

Born in London in 1928, Bernard Levin studied law at King's College London before embarking on a career in journalism. He gained prominence with his incisive and witty columns for the Spectator and The Times, where he tackled political and social issues. Levin became a familiar face on BBC television and radio, notably on the program What the Papers Say. His essays and commentary were collected in several acclaimed books, showcasing his elegant prose and sharp analysis. Over a career spanning four decades, he became one of Britain's most influential public commentators. Levin was honored for his contributions to journalism and broadcasting, leaving a lasting impact on British media. He passed away in 2004, remembered for his fearless voice and enduring influence.

Richard Ingrams was born in England in 1937 and educated at Eton College and Cambridge University. He co-founded the satirical magazine Private Eye in 1961 and served as its editor until 1963. In 1992, he launched The Oldie, a magazine combining humor, essays, and commentary for mature readers. Ingrams is celebrated for his wit and influence on British journalism over six decades. He has written for The Spectator, Daily Telegraph, and other publications, shaping magazine culture in the UK.

He began his career reporting on government corruption and human rights abuses. In 1996, he launched El Periódico, which became a leading independent news outlet. Zamora has won prestigious awards for press freedom and investigative journalism. His fearless reporting exposed links between politicians, military, and organized crime. Over the years, he has faced legal harassment, arrests, and threats to his safety. Zamora's work has had significant impact on transparency and accountability in Guatemala.

Jakub Dvorský (born August 19, 1978) is a Czech video game designer and the founder of Amanita Design. He is best known for creating award-winning games such as Samorost, Machinarium, and Botanicula. Dvorský's work is celebrated for its distinctive hand-drawn art style and inventive puzzles. He graduated from the Academy of Fine Arts in Prague before entering the interactive media industry. Under his leadership, Amanita Design has become a leading independent studio in the adventure genre.