October 05

Born in 1641 to a noble family, Françoise-Athénaïs rose to prominence at the French court and became the official maîtresse-en-titre of Louis XIV in 1667. Her wit, beauty, and intelligence earned her significant influence over royal patronage and cultural affairs. She bore seven children to the king, many of whom were legitimized and given titles. Montespan’s rivalry with Madame de Maintenon and involvement in the Affair of the Poisons scandal led to her fall from favor. After retiring to her estates, she devoted herself to religious contemplation and charitable works. She died in 1707, remembered as one of the most powerful and controversial figures of Louis XIV’s reign.

The Chevalier d'Éon was born in 1728 in Tonnerre, France, and served as a diplomat and secret agent for King Louis XV. From 1756 to 1760, d'Éon undertook covert missions to England and Russia, earning a reputation as a skilled spy. Around 1777, d'Éon began presenting publicly as a woman, sparking fascination and controversy across European courts. Their memoirs recounted diplomatic intrigues and shed light on gender identity, long before the term transgender existed. After years in England, the Chevalier returned to France and continued to command attention with their ambiguous identity. D'Éon died in 1810, leaving behind a legacy that challenges traditional notions of gender and espionage history.

Born in 1912 in Germany. Studied medicine and became a physician in the 1930s. During World War II, he took part in the Nazi T4 euthanasia program, overseeing the killing of mentally disabled patients. After the war, he was arrested and tried for crimes against humanity. In 1948, he was convicted and sentenced to prison for his role in the mass murders. He was released in the 1950s and returned to private practice. Died in 2003, his case is remembered as a stark example of medical participation in genocide.

Frederic Morton began his career in banking after emigrating from Austria, later forging a successful path as a journalist and author. His works, including the acclaimed memoir 'A Nervous Splendor,' vividly recreate the cultural and social life of Vienna before World War II. Morton’s masterful storytelling and meticulous research brought European history to life for readers around the world. He also wrote extensively for magazines and newspapers, blending personal insight with historical depth. Over his long career, Morton received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to literature and journalism.

Herbert Kretzmer began his career as a reporter and editor in South Africa before moving to London, where he wrote for The Sunday Times. He achieved international fame by writing the English lyrics for Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s musical 'Les Misérables,' first performed in 1980. Kretzmer’s lyrical adaptation retained the emotional depth of Victor Hugo’s novel while making it accessible to English-speaking audiences. He also collaborated on other musicals and songs, earning Tony and Grammy nominations. His work has left an enduring impact on musical theatre worldwide.

Born in 1933 in California, Doug Bailey became a key strategist in American politics, advising campaigns across the country. In 1987, he co-founded The Hotline, one of the first daily bipartisan political newsletters for journalists and insiders. Under his leadership, The Hotline became essential reading for concise summaries of elections, fundraising, and policy developments. Bailey's consulting work spanned presidential, senatorial, and grassroots campaigns, showcasing his messaging expertise. Known for his integrity and ability to distill complex issues, he earned respect from colleagues on both sides of the aisle. After selling The Hotline, he continued to mentor young consultants and promote civic education initiatives. Bailey passed away in 2013, remembered as a pioneer in political communications.

Angelo Buono was an American serial killer active in the late 1970s. Alongside his cousin Kenneth Bianchi, he committed a series of brutal murders in Los Angeles County. The duo became infamously known as the 'Hillside Stranglers'. Buono tortured and murdered at least ten women and girls before their arrest in 1979. His trial attracted national attention to violent crime and law enforcement methods. Convicted on multiple counts of murder and rape, he was sentenced to life imprisonment. Buono died in prison in 2002, leaving a dark legacy in criminal history.

Consuelo Ynares-Santiago built her legal career as a prosecutor and trial court judge in the Philippines. She was appointed to the Court of Appeals before being named an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court in 2004. During her tenure, she authored decisions on constitutional law, human rights, and gender equality. Ynares-Santiago advocated for reforms in the judiciary and improved access to justice for marginalized groups. She promoted legal education and served as a lecturer at several Philippine law schools. Her rulings often reflected a commitment to fairness, transparency, and the rule of law. After retiring in 2009, she continued to engage in public service through legal advocacy. Ynares-Santiago is respected for her trailblazing role as one of the few women on the Philippine Supreme Court.

Frank Stagg (5 October 1941 – 12 February 1976) was an Irish republican and member of the Provisional IRA. He was imprisoned for his activities and took part in multiple hunger strikes to demand political status for IRA prisoners. In 1975, Stagg began a hunger strike at Wakefield Prison in England. After 61 days without food, he died, drawing international attention to the treatment of Irish republican prisoners. His death intensified political debate and became a rallying point for supporters of the republican cause.

Mark Geragos built his career defending celebrities and public figures in high-profile criminal and civil cases. He has represented clients such as Michael Jackson, Winona Ryder, and Scott Peterson. Geragos is known for his media-savvy courtroom strategies and televised appearances. He founded the Geragos & Geragos law firm in Los Angeles, handling entertainment and criminal defense matters. Off the bench, he contributes to legal commentary on major news networks. Geragos’s celebrity cases and legal acumen have made him a household name in American legal circles.

Kenan İpek (born 1959) is a prominent Turkish jurist and former Minister of Justice. He earned his law degree from Istanbul University and specialized in administrative law. İpek served as a judge on Turkey's Council of State, the nation's highest administrative court. In December 2013, he was appointed Minister of Justice, overseeing significant legal reforms. He worked to modernize the judicial system and strengthen rule-of-law principles. İpek continues to influence legal discourse in Turkey through his writings and lectures.

Nick Robinson is an English journalist and blogger born in 1963. He has contributed articles to various news outlets and built a strong online presence. Robinson's work covers politics, culture, and emerging digital media trends. Known for his clear writing style and thoughtful perspective, he attracts a wide readership. He frequently speaks at journalism events and contributes to media workshops. Through his blog, he continues to explore the evolving landscape of news and social media.