August 21

Born into a prominent Hungarian noble family in 1560. Elizabeth Báthory was accused of torturing and killing scores of servants and village girls between 1590 and 1610. She gained notoriety for allegedly bathing in the blood of her victims, a legend that contributed to her macabre reputation. After a lengthy trial, she was confined to Csejte Castle by royal decree and remained under house arrest until her death. Her case remains one of the most famous examples of aristocratic crime in European history, inspiring countless books and films.

George Lester Jackson (1941–1971) was an American activist and author whose writings on racial inequality and prison conditions became influential in the 1960s. He co-founded the Black Guerrilla Family, a political prison organization aimed at combating systemic oppression. Jackson's works, including 'Soledad Brother' and 'Blood in My Eye', blended personal narrative with revolutionary theory. His letters from prison highlighted abuses within the U.S. penal system and inspired movements for prison reform. Viewed as a martyr after his death during an escape attempt, Jackson became a symbol of resistance for many activists. His legacy endures through his writings and the ongoing discussions on race, justice, and incarceration in America.

Buford Pusser (1937–1974) served as sheriff of McNairy County, Tennessee, where he gained national attention for his crusade against organized crime and corruption. Armed with a customized rifle and unwavering determination, he became known for confronting bootleggers and other criminals single-handedly. Pusser survived an assassination attempt that left him with severe injuries, solidifying his reputation for bravery. His life's story was dramatized in the 1973 film 'Walking Tall', further popularizing his iconic image. Despite controversy over his methods, Pusser remains a symbol of tough, uncompromising law enforcement. His legacy lives on through memorials and the continued interest in his fight against crime.

Charles Eames (1907–1978) was an American designer and architect who, alongside his wife Ray, revolutionized modern design. Their landmark Eames House (Case Study House No. 8) in California became an icon of postwar architecture and integrated indoor-outdoor living. Eames also pioneered innovative furniture designs using molded plywood and fiberglass, most famously the Eames Lounge Chair. Beyond architecture and furniture, the Eames Office produced influential films, exhibitions, and graphic designs. His multidisciplinary approach blended functionality, technology, and aesthetic elegance, impacting design worldwide. Eames's work continues to shape contemporary architecture and design education.

Born in 1911 on the Mohawk reserve of Kahnawake, Mary Two-Axe Earley experienced discrimination under the Indian Act when she married outside her community and lost her legal status. For decades, she campaigned tirelessly to amend Canadian law and restore rights to Indigenous women. In 1974, she founded the Equal Rights for Indian Women organization, raising awareness across Canada and lobbying Parliament. Her efforts culminated in the 1985 amendment to the Indian Act, allowing women and their descendants to regain status. Earley's advocacy not only rectified legal injustices but also inspired future generations of Indigenous activists. She died on August 21, 1996, leaving a profound legacy of social reform.