November 14

Sidonie of Poděbrady was born in 1449 as the eldest daughter of King George of Poděbrady of Bohemia. She lived through significant religious and political upheaval during the Hussite Wars aftermath. As a princess, her marriage negotiations were central to dynastic alliances in Central Europe, though she never ascended to a throne. Historical records highlight her patronage of the arts and her pious character. She passed away in 1510, remembered for her noble lineage and influence within Bohemian nobility.

Richard Topcliffe was born in 1531 and became infamous as one of Queen Elizabeth I's principal interrogators of Catholics. Known for his ruthless methods, he personally conducted torture on numerous prisoners, enforcing the monarch's religious policies. Topcliffe held positions such as Justice of the Peace and wielded significant power in suppressing Catholic uprisings. His actions provoked both fear and controversy, making him a symbol of Elizabethan religious persecution. He died in 1604, leaving a legacy marred by cruelty and controversy.

Maria Cristina of Savoy was born a princess of Sardinia and became Queen consort of the Two Sicilies through marriage to King Ferdinand II. Her short reign was marked by devoted charity, supporting orphanages and hospitals in Naples. Beloved by her subjects for her humility, religious fervor, and patronage of the arts. Maria Cristina fostered cultural exchange between Sardinia and Naples, hosting salons that welcomed artists and intellectuals. She died at the age of 24 after a brief illness, inspiring widespread mourning and commemorations. Her husband commissioned memorials and churches in her honor, reflecting her enduring legacy. Maria Cristina’s life exemplifies the virtues of compassion and duty in European royalty. She was beatified by popular acclaim, and her memory remains significant in Italian history.

Madeleine Lemoyne Ellicott was an American activist active in the early 20th century. Passionate about environmental conservation, she campaigned for the protection of forests and public parks. Ellicott also supported the women's suffrage movement, organizing local chapters and fundraising for the cause. She held leadership roles in civic organizations that promoted education and public health. Her work helped raise awareness of social and environmental issues at a time of rapid industrial change. Ellicott's legacy includes contributions to both conservation policy and the advancement of women’s participation in public life.

John Lumsden was an Irish physician who recognized the need for trained medical volunteers to provide first aid on the battlefield and in civilian life. In 1881, he established the St. John Ambulance Brigade of Ireland, introducing standardized training and organized response protocols. Under his leadership, the brigade expanded to schools, workplaces, and public events, setting a model for first aid services worldwide. Lumsden advocated for public health education and the importance of rapid medical assistance during emergencies. His work laid the foundation for modern ambulance services and community-based healthcare initiatives in Ireland.

Wajed Ali Khan Panni was a member of the prominent Panni Zamindar family in Bengal who dedicated his life to philanthropic efforts. Using his wealth, he funded the establishment of schools, libraries, and healthcare facilities in rural communities. Panni supported cultural institutions and agricultural improvements, aiming to enhance the quality of life for tenants and villagers. His initiatives increased literacy rates and access to medical care during the early 20th century. Remembered for his generosity, Panni's contributions had a lasting impact on social development in Bengal.

Haley built a reputation for fairness and integrity throughout his legal career in California. Appointed to the Superior Court, he presided over high-profile cases that garnered public attention. On August 7, 1970, he was taken hostage during a courtroom raid by members of the Black Panther Party. In the ensuing confrontation, Haley was mortally wounded, leading to his untimely death. His sacrifice highlighted the volatility of the era and reinforced the importance of judicial security.

Barbara Hutton inherited a vast fortune as the granddaughter of F.W. Woolworth, becoming one of the wealthiest women in the world. She earned the nickname 'Poor Little Rich Girl' due to her tumultuous personal life and seven marriages. Hutton was a generous philanthropist, supporting causes like the American Red Cross and various children's charities. Despite her wealth, she faced financial ups and downs and struggled with personal relationships. Her glamorous lifestyle and tragic life story have fascinated the public for decades.

Alan J. W. Bell (November 14, 1937 – June 12, 2023) was an English television director and producer renowned for his work on British comedy series. He directed hundreds of episodes of Last of the Summer Wine, contributing significantly to its five-decade run. Bell also helmed acclaimed programs such as Ripping Yarns and Shelley, showcasing his skill in comedic timing and character development. His collaborations with writers like Michael Palin helped shape the golden age of British television comedy. Bell's career spanned over four decades and left a lasting legacy in UK entertainment.

Born in Yorkshire in 1948, Paul Dacre has been a towering figure in British journalism. He served as editor of the Daily Mail from 1992 to 2018, overseeing record circulation growth and shaping a conservative editorial voice. His tenure was marked by both acclaim for his editorial acumen and criticism for sensationalist headlines. After stepping down as editor, he became chairman of the newspaper's parent company, DMG Media. Dacre's influence on UK media and politics has made him one of the most powerful and controversial press figures in recent decades.

Peter R. de Vries (November 14, 1956 – July 15, 2021) was a Dutch investigative journalist and crime reporter celebrated for his fearless investigations and compelling storytelling. He gained international recognition for uncovering corruption and wrongful convictions, most notably his work on the kidnapping of Freddy Heineken. De Vries founded his own crime programme, 'Peter R. de Vries, Crime Reporter,' which ran for over a decade on Dutch television. He also played a pivotal role in achieving justice for victims, including advocating for the cold case of Marianne Vaatstra. In addition to journalism, he served as a confidant and advisor to crime victims and their families. In 2021, he was shot in Amsterdam in an assassination attempt and succumbed to his injuries, triggering national outpourings of grief and calls for better protection of journalists. His legacy endures in his contributions to investigative reporting and the pursuit of justice.

Stéphane Bern was born in Lyon, France, and studied at the Institut d'études politiques de Paris. He began his career in journalism and gained fame as a radio host on stations like RTL and Europe 1. He is widely recognized for presenting the television series "Secrets d'histoire", which explores European royal history. Bern has authored numerous books on monarchies and cultural heritage. He frequently appears at public events as a commentator on royal affairs. He has been honored by French cultural organizations for his promotion of history and heritage.