November 22

Robert Clive, known as Clive of India, was born in 1725 in Shropshire, England. Beginning his career with the East India Company as a clerk, he quickly rose through the ranks due to his military prowess. He led Company forces to victory at the Battle of Plassey in 1757, laying the foundations for British rule in Bengal and beyond. Appointed the first British governor of Bengal in 1765, he reorganized administration and finances to strengthen Company control. His tenure saw dramatic expansion of British influence, though it was marred by accusations of corruption and private gain. Clive faced a parliamentary inquiry upon his return to England, ultimately retaining his reputation but showing signs of strain. Despite his achievements, his final years were troubled by ill health and political attacks. He died on November 22, 1774, leaving a complex legacy as both a founding figure of the British Raj and a controversial imperialist.

Werner Mölders was born in 1913 in Gelsenkirchen and emerged as one of the Luftwaffe’s most celebrated pilots. He achieved the milestone of 100 aerial victories, becoming a national hero in Nazi Germany. Mölders introduced the 'finger-four' formation, which greatly improved fighter tactics and was adopted by air forces worldwide. As Geschwaderkommodore of JG 51, he led missions on multiple fronts. He died tragically in a plane crash during a training flight on November 22, 1941. His innovations in aerial combat have had a lasting impact on military aviation.

Rafał Gan-Ganowicz (1932–2002) was a Polish soldier and mercenary known for his service in post-colonial African conflicts. He fought in the Congo Crisis and supported anti-communist forces during the Cold War. After leaving military service, Gan-Ganowicz became a journalist and public speaker, writing on defense and politics. He contributed to Polish exile publications, advocating for freedom and resistance against Soviet influence. Gan-Ganowicz's insider perspective on guerrilla warfare and international relations made him a notable commentator. His life story embodies the complexities of Cold War-era military and political struggles.

Born in 1927, Kim Young-sam began his career as an army officer during the Korean War before entering politics in the 1950s. He became a prominent opposition leader, championing democratic reforms and human rights against successive military regimes. In 1992, Kim was elected as South Korea’s seventh President, becoming the first civilian leader in three decades. His administration implemented major anti-corruption initiatives, including the introduction of the real-name financial system to curb illicit funds. He also pursued economic liberalization and strengthened civilian oversight of the military. During the 1997 Asian financial crisis, Kim negotiated an IMF bailout to stabilize the economy. After leaving office in 1998, he remained an influential elder statesman until his death in 2015.