December 10

William Lloyd Garrison was born in 1805 in Newburyport, Massachusetts, and became a leading voice in the American abolitionist movement. In 1831, he founded The Liberator, a weekly newspaper that advocated immediate emancipation of all enslaved people. His uncompromising stance and powerful rhetoric galvanized activists and helped shape public debate on slavery. Garrison co-founded the American Anti-Slavery Society and worked alongside figures like Frederick Douglass. He championed nonviolent resistance and women's rights, extending his advocacy beyond abolition. Garrison remained a prominent social reformer until his death in 1879, and his newspaper influenced generations of activists.

Born in Cardwell, Montana, Huntley began his career in radio reporting before joining NBC News in 1947. He covered major events such as the Nuremberg Trials and the Korean War, earning respect for his calm delivery. In 1956, he was paired with David Brinkley to launch the Huntley-Brinkley Report, a top-rated evening newscast. His signature sign-off, “Good night, Chet,” made him a trusted household name. After retiring in 1970, he received multiple Emmy Awards and remained a respected voice in journalism until his death.

Born in 1912, Takechi began his career as a theatre critic before moving into experimental stage productions. In the early 1960s, he directed innovative revues that blended traditional Japanese performance with modern dance. His 1964 film Daydream became one of Japan’s first erotic movies and sparked a landmark obscenity trial. After winning the case, he continued to produce provocative cinema and wrote extensively on theater and film theory. Hailed as the “Father of Pink Film,” his bold challenges to censorship expanded the boundaries of creative expression in Japan. He remained a controversial figure until his death in 1988, influencing generations of Japanese artists.

Born into the Rothschild family in 1913, de Koenigswarter moved to New York and immersed herself in the jazz scene. As a patron, she supported icons like Thelonious Monk and Charlie Parker with lodging, financial aid, and friendship. She provided backing for recordings and live performances, earning the nickname "Nica" among musicians. Her Manhattan townhouse, dubbed the "Zebra Room," became a creative hub for jam sessions and collaborations. An accomplished writer, she documented her experiences in memoirs and articles, preserving jazz history. Her enduring patronage left a profound impact on the development of bebop and modern jazz.

Clorindo Testa was an influential architect whose bold, brutalist designs left a lasting mark on Argentina’s urban landscape. Born in Italy and raised in Argentina, he blended European modernism with local context, creating innovative public and private buildings. His masterpiece, the National Library in Buenos Aires, features striking concrete forms and open, sculptural spaces. Testa also designed the Marriott Plaza Hotel, earning international recognition for his unique aesthetic. He contributed to architectural discourse through teaching and writing, inspiring generations of designers. His work continues to be studied for its daring materiality and cultural resonance.

Born in 1936, Howard Smith began his career reporting on major events during the civil rights era. He transitioned to film, directing documentaries that delved into political activism and urban life. As a producer, Smith championed independent cinema and gave voice to emerging artists. His work bridged journalism and creative filmmaking, offering unique perspectives on society. Smith's multidisciplinary legacy continues to influence documentary storytelling.

Born in 1953, Bury began his career in print journalism before moving to broadcast media. He joined ABC News in the 1980s as a correspondent and later became a White House correspondent. In 1993, Bury moved to NBC News, reporting on major international events and U.S. politics. He also served as a correspondent for Dateline NBC, covering investigative stories and human interest features. After decades in broadcast journalism, he transitioned to academia, teaching journalism ethics and reporting. Bury has received multiple awards, including Emmy and Peabody honors, for his in-depth reporting. He continues to mentor aspiring journalists through university programs and workshops.

Born in 1959, Udi Aloni is a filmmaker, artist, and author of Israeli-American background. His films and visual art often tackle issues related to politics, identity, and social justice. Aloni has exhibited his work at international film festivals and galleries. He has published novels, poetry, and essays that blend art with activism. Through multidisciplinary projects, he encourages dialogue on human rights and coexistence. Aloni’s bold style challenges audiences to reflect on contemporary global issues.

Bobby Flay rose to fame on the Food Network with shows like Mesa Grill, Grill It! with Bobby Flay, and the competition series Beat Bobby Flay. He has opened a string of successful restaurants, including Mesa Grill and Bar Americain, earning critical acclaim and industry awards. Flay has authored numerous best-selling cookbooks that showcase his bold flavors and Southwestern influences. A restaurateur and entrepreneur, he has expanded his brand into television, publishing, and product lines. His engaging personality and culinary expertise have made him a household name for food enthusiasts around the world.

Greg Giraldo earned a law degree from Harvard Law School and practiced law before pursuing a career in comedy. He became known for his sharp wit and incisive social commentary, performing on late-night shows and stand-up specials. Giraldo was a frequent panellist on the Comedy Central series Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn and a regular roaster on the network's celebrity roast events. His incisive humor and grounded storytelling earned him critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. Giraldo's promising career was cut short by his untimely death in 2010, but his influential style continues to inspire comedians today.

Sultan Kösen (born December 10, 1982) is a Turkish farmer recognized by Guinness World Records as the tallest living man. He measures 251 cm (8 ft 2.8 in) due to a rare condition called pituitary gigantism. Kösen's extraordinary height has made him an international celebrity and advocate for medical research. He has appeared on television programs worldwide and participates in public events. Despite his stature, he leads a humble life in his hometown of Mardin, Turkey.