February 19

Shivaji was an Indian warrior-king born in 1630 who established the Maratha Empire in western India. He developed innovative military tactics, including guerrilla warfare and the strategic use of hill forts, to resist Mughal dominance. Recognizing the importance of naval power, Shivaji built a competent maritime force along the Konkan coast. In 1674, he was crowned Chhatrapati, emphasizing regional autonomy and Hindu traditions. Shivaji implemented a progressive administrative system, promoting meritocracy in his military and civil services. His reign fostered agricultural development, trade, and cultural patronage across his territories. Shivaji's legacy endures as a symbol of resistance, effective leadership, and statecraft. He died in 1680, leaving a robust empire that continued to challenge rival powers.

Allan MacNab was born in 1798 in Newark (now Niagara-on-the-Lake), Upper Canada. He fought in the War of 1812 as part of the militia defending Canada against American invasion. After studying law, he became a prominent lawyer and articled with leading colonial figures. MacNab entered politics and rose to become Premier of Canada West from 1854 to 1856. His tenure focused on infrastructure improvements, including railway expansion and canal projects. Known for his charismatic leadership and oratory, he influenced the political landscape before Confederation.

Born in 1872, Pitka served in the Russian Imperial Navy before leading Estonian forces in the Independence War of 1918-1920. He organized the formation of the Estonian navy and coast guard, securing vital maritime defenses. Pitka's leadership extended to guerrilla warfare, earning him the nickname 'the commander of the forests.' After independence, he supported the development of Estonian state institutions and defense systems. Facing Soviet advances in World War II, Pitka disappeared in 1944 under mysterious circumstances. He is remembered as a key figure in Estonia's military and national history.

Born in 1880 in Sonora, Obregón played a leading role in the Mexican Revolution, commanding revolutionary forces. He won the decisive Battle of Celaya, using innovative tactics against opposing generals. Obregón negotiated with foreign powers to stabilize Mexico's economy and attract investment. He was elected president in 1920, promoting land reform, education, and infrastructure development. After surviving an assassination attempt, Obregón stepped down but was re-elected in 1928 before his assassination. His presidency laid the foundation for modern Mexican politics under the Institutional Revolutionary Party.