November 24

John Indermaur (1851–1925) was a prominent British solicitor and academic who specialized in commercial and contract law. Educated at the University of London, he combined legal practice with teaching, becoming a lecturer in law and contributing to legal education reform. Indermaur authored several authoritative textbooks and commentaries, including works on the Sale of Goods Act and contract principles, which became standard references for practitioners and students. His clear writing style and practical insights helped demystify complex legal concepts. In 1912, he was honored for his service to the legal community, and he continued to influence legal scholarship until his death. Today, his publications remain valued historical resources in the study of English law.

Cass Gilbert was a pioneering American architect whose designs defined early 20th-century skylines. Trained at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, he embraced the Beaux-Arts style and created the Woolworth Building, once the world’s tallest skyscraper. Later, he was commissioned to design the United States Supreme Court Building in Washington, D.C., blending classical motifs with modern construction techniques. Gilbert’s work influenced generations of architects and set new standards for monumental architecture in the United States.

Walter Burley Griffin, born in 1876 near Chicago, studied under Frank Lloyd Wright before developing his own architectural philosophy. In 1912, he won an international competition to design the layout of Canberra, incorporating geometric motifs, water features, and expansive green spaces. Griffin later applied his planning principles to suburbs and institutions in Australia and the United States, emphasizing harmony between buildings and landscape. His innovative approach challenged conventional city design and influenced modern urban planning. Today, Canberra’s enduring cityscape reflects his visionary work.

Born in 1877, Kavasji Jamshedji Petigara joined the Indian Imperial Police and quickly rose through the ranks. He became the first Indian to hold the post of Deputy Commissioner of Police in Bombay, where he led major operations against organized crime and smuggling. Known for his integrity and dedication, he implemented reforms that improved police efficiency and public trust. Petigara's leadership helped suppress notorious gangs and stabilize urban security in the early 20th century. He retired in 1934 and left a lasting legacy in Indian policing before his death in 1941.

Al Christie was born in 1881 and became an early innovator in silent film comedy. He co-founded the Christie Film Company in 1916 and produced hundreds of comedy shorts featuring popular slapstick stars. As a director and screenwriter, he developed fast-paced narratives and visual gags that influenced later comedy filmmakers. Christie's studio became one of the most prolific independent film producers in Hollywood's early years. Honored for his creativity and entrepreneurial spirit, he retired in the 1940s and passed away in 1951, leaving a legacy in cinematic comedy.

Born Salvatore Lucania in Sicily in 1897, Lucky Luciano rose to power in New York's underworld during the Prohibition era. He orchestrated the 1931 Mafia reorganization at the Atlantic City Conference, creating a national crime syndicate with a commission to settle disputes. Luciano controlled bootlegging, racketeering, and gambling operations, amassing considerable influence. Convicted on prostitution charges in 1936, he was sentenced to prison but later deported to Italy in 1946. Even in exile, he maintained connections with American crime figures until his death in 1962. His tactics and organizational model left a lasting imprint on organized crime.

Albert Ross Tilley (1904–1988) was a Canadian captain and surgeon. He trained in medicine and went on to specialize in surgery. As a captain, he led teams where he applied his medical skills to care for those under his command. Renowned for his dedication and leadership, Tilley mentored younger surgeons. His contributions to military medicine left a lasting impact on Canadian surgical practices. After retiring, he continued to advocate for advancements in medical training and healthcare. He passed away in 1988, leaving behind a legacy of service and professional excellence.

Arthur Chaskalson was a pioneering South African jurist instrumental in shaping the country's post-apartheid legal system. He served as the first President of South Africa's Constitutional Court after its establishment in 1994. In 2001, he was appointed the 18th Chief Justice of South Africa, leading the nation's judiciary. A co-founder of the Legal Resources Centre, he championed pro bono legal aid for underserved communities. His landmark rulings helped enshrine fundamental human rights in the new Constitution. After retiring, he continued mentoring jurists and promoting access to justice until his death in 2012.

At just 19 years old, Charles Starkweather embarked on a killing spree that left 11 people dead over two months in late 1957 and early 1958. Accompanied by his 14-year-old girlfriend, Caril Ann Fugate, he targeted families and strangers in a series of random attacks. Starkweather was captured in January 1958, convicted of first-degree murder, and sentenced to death. He was executed in Nebraska's electric chair on June 25, 1959. His crimes and the chilling nature of his relationship with Fugate inspired numerous books, films, and cultural examinations of violence.

Marlin Fitzwater (born 1942) began his career as a reporter at The New York Times and national newspapers. He was appointed White House Press Secretary in 1987 by President Ronald Reagan and continued in the role under President George H. W. Bush until 1993. Fitzwater became the longest-serving White House Press Secretary in modern history. After leaving the White House, he wrote his memoir and worked as a communications consultant. He has lectured at universities and advised several presidential campaigns. Fitzwater’s insights into presidential communications have made him a sought-after speaker and author.

Born in 1946, he became one of America's most infamous criminals after a string of brutal murders and abductions in multiple states. Bundy was known for his charm and intelligence, traits he used to gain the trust of his victims before attacking. He escaped from custody twice and continued his crimes until his final capture in 1978. Convicted on multiple murder charges, he received three death sentences. On January 24, 1989, Bundy was executed in Florida's electric chair. His case helped shape modern criminal profiling and forensic investigation techniques. His life and crimes have been the subject of numerous books, films, and academic studies exploring the nature of evil and criminal behavior.

Jon Hein is an American radio personality and web entrepreneur born in Detroit, Michigan. He graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in computer science. In 1997, he launched JumpTheShark.com, a site dedicated to tracking the decline of television series. He joined The Howard Stern Show as a behind-the-scenes producer and on-air personality. He co-hosts the popular segments "Jump the Shark" and "The Wrap-Up Show", delighting fans with pop culture commentary. With decades in radio and digital media, Hein remains an influential figure in entertainment.