November 22

Born in 1820, Katherine Plunket lived to the age of 111, passing away in 1932. Her lifespan witnessed the Great Famine, the Easter Rising, and the formation of the Irish Free State. Despite her longevity, she remained active in gardening and painting until her final years. Her longevity records have been verified by international organizations. Plunket's life offers a unique window into 19th- and early 20th-century Irish history. She is celebrated for her remarkable vitality and historical perspective.

Leo Amery (1873-1955) was a distinguished British Conservative politician, journalist, and colonial administrator. Born in India, he began his career as a reporter for The Times before entering Parliament in 1911. Amery held senior Cabinet roles, including Secretary of State for the Colonies, where he shaped policies on self-government and imperial federation. A powerful orator, he warned against the rise of totalitarianism and advocated for strong Anglo-American relations. After World War II, he remained an influential commentator on international affairs and decolonization. His dual talents in journalism and politics left a lasting imprint on British imperial history.

Edward Bernays was a groundbreaking figure in the fields of advertising and public relations, applying psychological insights to mass communication. A nephew of Sigmund Freud, he leveraged theories of human behavior to shape public opinion for corporations and governments. His campaigns, such as promoting cigarette smoking among women, showcased his innovative use of media and celebrity endorsements. Bernays authored seminal works like 'Crystallizing Public Opinion,' laying the theoretical foundations for PR practice. His influence continues to be felt in contemporary marketing, corporate communications, and political campaigns.

Harley Earl led General Motors’ Art and Colour Section, the first automotive design studio, revolutionizing car aesthetics. He introduced concept vehicles like the Buick Y-Job, influencing the industry’s future direction. Earl’s bold designs, including iconic tailfins on 1950s Cadillacs, captured the imagination of post-war America. His integration of styling and marketing elevated the automobile from mere transportation to an aspirational product. Earl’s legacy endures in the continued emphasis on design innovation within the global automotive industry.

Jørgen Juve was one of Norway's early football stars, renowned for his goal-scoring feats as a forward for the national team. He remains Norway's all-time top scorer, a record that stood for decades. After retiring from playing, he embarked on a career in journalism and became a leading voice in Norwegian sports media. Juve covered major international events and helped popularize football in his home country. His dual contributions on the field and in print made him a lasting figure in Norway's sporting heritage.

Doris Duke inherited a vast tobacco fortune and dedicated much of her life to philanthropic causes, including medical research, historic preservation, and environmental conservation. She amassed an impressive art and antique collection, supporting museums and cultural institutions across the United States. Duke was also a patron of horticulture, creating elaborate gardens at her estates. Her global travels influenced her charitable vision and collection focus. Through the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, her legacy continues to fund innovative projects in health, the arts, and community development.

John Eleuthère du Pont was a member of a prominent industrial family who earned a Ph.D. in natural sciences before dedicating himself to philanthropy and sport. He founded the Foxcatcher wrestling program on his Pennsylvania estate, attracting elite athletes with his generous patronage. In 1996, du Pont fatally shot Olympic champion Dave Schultz, leading to his conviction for third-degree murder and a life sentence in prison. His complex personality and downfall were later dramatized in the film 'Foxcatcher.' Du Pont’s struggle with mental health issues and his abrupt fall from prominence cast a long shadow over his earlier contributions. He died in prison in 2010, leaving behind a legacy marked by wealth, ambition, tragedy, and controversy.

Buzz Potamkin began his career directing animated commercials and shorts in the 1970s. He co-founded Buzzco Associates in 1970, helping to pioneer creative storytelling in animation. Potamkin produced innovative work for clients such as Nickelodeon, MTV, and PBS. His projects blended humor, artistry, and technical skill, influencing a generation of animators. He received multiple accolades for his contributions to television and commercial animation. Potamkin's legacy endures through the impactful work of Buzzco and its alumni.

Denise Epoté is a Cameroonian journalist and television executive known for her pioneering work in Francophone media. Born in 1954, she has forged a distinguished career spanning over four decades. Epoté previously worked with several prominent broadcasters, reporting on political and cultural affairs across Africa and Europe. In her current role as head of Africa Management at TV5 Monde, she oversees the network's programming, operations, and strategic development for African audiences. Under her leadership, TV5 Monde Afrique has expanded its reach and diversified its content to reflect the dynamism of the continent. A passionate advocate for African storytelling, she continues to mentor emerging journalists and promote the importance of media representation.

George Alagiah was born in 1955 in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and moved to the UK at a young age. He joined the BBC as a news trainee in 1989 and quickly established himself as a trusted correspondent, reporting on conflicts and humanitarian crises around the world. Alagiah served as the BBC's Asia correspondent in New Delhi before becoming the main presenter of BBC News at Six and BBC News at Ten. He authored several books and documentary series on international affairs. Diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2014, he became a prominent advocate for cancer awareness before his passing in 2023. Alagiah is remembered for his calm authority, empathy, and in-depth journalism.

Apetor, born Tor Eckhoff in 1964, was a Norwegian YouTuber known for his viral videos featuring ice lake bathing and unconventional stunts. With a signature bathtub on frozen lakes, he amassed millions of views and a global fanbase. Eckhoff's content blended humor, resilience, and a deep appreciation for Norway's winter landscapes. Beyond his online persona, he held a degree in chemistry and enjoyed sharing outdoor survival tips. Tragically, he passed away in 2021 during an ice swimming expedition, leaving a legacy of adventurous spirit and authenticity.