January 21

Born in 1643 in Normandy, France. He became notorious on the highways of England for robbing wealthy travelers. Legend credits him with dancing a minuet with a noblewoman before tying her up and gifting a glove. He styled himself as a gentleman-robber, combining daring heists with polite manners. His romanticized exploits made him a folk hero in ballads and plays. He was executed in 1670, his legend outliving his short career of crime.

David Ker emigrated from Ireland to the American colonies in the late 18th century. He was appointed the inaugural president of the University of North Carolina, shaping its early academic programs. After stepping down, he served as a judge in Louisiana, influencing the region’s legal foundations. Ker was known for his dedication to classical education and civic leadership. He helped establish libraries and promoted scholarship in the young American republic. His career bridged advancements in both education and the judiciary.

Sandro Penna (1906–1977) was an Italian poet whose concise, evocative verses captured the nuances of passion and everyday life. Born in Perugia, he later moved to Rome and built a career as a journalist writing for major newspapers. Penna’s poetry, marked by its musicality and candid exploration of homoerotic themes, stood out in post-war Italian literature. His collections such as 'Poesie' and 'Stranezze' are acclaimed for their graceful economy of language. Awarded the Viareggio Prize, he influenced generations of Italian poets despite publishing sparingly. Penna remains a revered figure for his bold expression and delicate craftsmanship.

James Beard (1903–1985) was a pioneering American chef whose cookbooks and television appearances helped define modern American cuisine. He hosted one of the first cooking shows on national broadcast television and wrote more than twenty influential books on food and cooking. Beard co-founded the James Beard Foundation to support culinary excellence and preserve America's diverse food traditions. His emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and regional flavors democratized gourmet cooking for home chefs. Each year, the prestigious James Beard Awards honor top talent in restaurants and food media, cementing his lasting influence on culinary culture.

Eddie Graham (1930–1985) was a dynamic professional wrestler and promoter who shaped the wrestling industry in the mid-20th century. Initially making his mark as a charismatic in-ring performer, he captured multiple regional heavyweight titles with his athletic style. Transitioning to promotion, Graham ran Championship Wrestling from Florida, where he discovered and nurtured talents like Dusty Rhodes and Barry Windham. His innovative storytelling and marketing strategies revolutionized wrestling shows and fan engagement. Despite personal struggles, Graham’s contributions to the sport earned him posthumous induction into several wrestling halls of fame, securing his legacy as a pioneer.

Charles Goodell (1926–1987) began his public service as a Navy lieutenant during World War II before pursuing a legal career in New York City. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1964 and appointed to the Senate in 1968, championing civil rights, environmental protection, and moderate social reforms. Goodell’s independent stance often put him at odds with party leadership during the Vietnam War era, reflecting his commitment to principle over politics. After narrowly losing re-election in 1970, he continued to influence public policy through legal advocacy and advisory roles. Goodell’s dedication to integrity and civic duty left a lasting impression on American governance.

John L. Hess was an influential American reporter and editor born in 1917. He worked at The New York Times and later as a food critic for the New York Daily News. Hess was known for his uncompromising style and sharp analysis of journalistic practices. His writings explored the intersection of food, culture, and social issues. He edited collections of his critical essays, guiding readers to think deeply about the news. Hess taught journalism and mentored a generation of reporters with his rigorous standards. His legacy endures in the fields of media criticism and culinary writing.