February 20

Born in 1358 to the royal family of Aragon. Married King John I of Castile in 1375. As queen consort she played a significant role in diplomatic relations between Aragon and Castile. Known for her patronage of the arts and devotion to her subjects. Died in 1382 at age 24.

Born in 1469 in Gaeta, Italy. Studied philosophy and theology at the University of Padua. Earned acclaim for his lucid commentaries on Aristotle and his defense of Church doctrine at the Fifth Lateran Council. Elevated to cardinal in 1517 and served as a key advisor in ecclesiastical reforms. His works shaped Catholic theology during the Reformation. Died in 1534.

Born in 1523 in Usti nad Labem in Bohemia. Became a prominent member of the Unity of the Brethren and served as superintendent. Produced the first Czech grammar and translated the New Testament into Czech, influencing the development of the Czech language. Authored collections of hymns that remain central to Czech liturgical music. His scholarly efforts cemented his legacy in Renaissance literature. Died in 1571.

Born in 1549 in Pesaro, Italy. Succeeded his father Guidobaldo II as Duke of Urbino in 1574. Maintained his court as a center of Renaissance art and learning, patronizing artists like Federico Barocci. Married twice but left no male heir, leading him to sell the duchy to Pope Urban VIII in 1625. His reign marked the end of the della Rovere dynasty. Died in 1631.

Born in 1552, Hidehisa served under Oda Nobunaga and later Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Commanded forces at the Battle of Komaki and Nagakute, where he suffered a defeat but later regained favor. Appointed lord of Ueda and later Owari provinces. Adapted to changing political landscapes to maintain his domain through the unification of Japan. His career reflects the tumultuous transition from warring states to Tokugawa rule. Died in 1614.

Born in 1608 to a prominent Staffordshire family. Created Baron Capell of Hadham in 1641 and appointed Lord President of Wales. Staunch Royalist who raised troops for King Charles I during the English Civil War. Captured by Parliamentarians and executed in 1649, becoming a martyr for the Royalist cause. Remembered for his unwavering loyalty and leadership in a time of crisis.

Born in 1631, Osborne rose through court ranks after the Restoration of Charles II. Served as Treasurer of the Navy and later as Lord High Treasurer under William III. Key figure in the 'Country Party', advocating for parliamentary power and financial reform. Instrumental in negotiating the Treaty of the Triple Alliance against France. Retired in 1699 and was honored as Duke of Leeds. Died in 1712.

Born in 1633 in The Hague, de Baen studied under Jacob van der Ulft. Gained fame for his portraits of statesmen, diplomats, and royalty, including Frederick William of Brandenburg. Appointed court painter to the Electorate of the Palatinate and worked across Europe. His sober style and attention to detail made him a sought-after artist. Died in 1702, leaving a rich legacy of Baroque portraiture.

Born in 1705, Chédeville excelled as a musette virtuoso in Paris. Composed pieces for the hurdy-gurdy and musette, publishing works under pseudonyms to boost sales. His 'Amusements de Musette' remains an important collection of baroque pastoral music. Collaborated with Jean-Philippe Rameau and influenced French instrumental styles. Remembered for elevating folk instruments to courtly music salons. Died in 1782.

Born in 1726 in Pepperell, Massachusetts. Studied law and served as a militia officer before the Revolution. Appointed colonel of the 7th Massachusetts Regiment in 1775. Led American troops at Bunker Hill, reportedly ordering 'Do not fire until you see the whites of their eyes'. Became a symbol of colonial determination despite the British tactical victory. After the war, returned to legal practice and public service. Died in 1795.

Born in 1744, William Cornwallis embarked on a naval career that saw him rise to the rank of admiral. He served with distinction during the American Revolutionary and French Revolutionary Wars. Known for his strict discipline tempered with humanity towards prisoners. He organized blockades and commanded fleets in key naval engagements. After retiring from active service, he served as a Member of Parliament representing Lostwithiel. His leadership and reforms influenced Royal Navy practices into the 19th century.

Born in 1745, Henry James Pye studied at Winchester College and Christ Church, Oxford. He was appointed Poet Laureate in 1790, serving until his death in 1813. Pye served as Member of Parliament for Berkshire and held the office of High Sheriff. Although his poetry received mixed reviews, his official verses were widely circulated. He authored pastoral and classical works, embodying the tastes of his era. His tenure as Laureate saw him compose occasional poetry for royal occasions.