February 24

Æthelberht ruled Kent from around 589 until his death in 616. He is notable for being the first Anglo-Saxon monarch to convert to Christianity, influenced by his Frankish wife, Bertha. His reign marked the beginning of the Christianization of southern England. He sponsored Augustine of Canterbury’s mission in 597, leading to the establishment of the early English church. Æthelberht also issued the Law of Æthelberht, one of the earliest Germanic legal codes. His diplomatic ties with the Frankish kingdoms strengthened Kent’s position among the emerging Anglo-Saxon kingdoms.

Liu Yun served as a jiedushi, holding both civil and military authority in his province during the Five Dynasties period. He managed regional defenses and maintained order amid frequent political upheaval. His role exemplified the increasing power of military governors in post-Tang China. Despite scarce records, his leadership reflects the complex balance between local autonomy and allegiance to the imperial court. Liu Yun’s tenure highlights the fragmentation and regionalism that characterized 10th-century Chinese politics.

Borrell served as bishop of Vic until his death in 1018, leading the church in a time of political consolidation in Catalonia. He worked to reform clerical discipline and strengthen ties between his diocese and the emerging Catalan counts. Borrell participated in regional councils addressing ecclesiastical governance and property disputes. His leadership contributed to the stability and organization of the Vic church. Medieval records note his administrative efforts and the growth of his diocese under his guidance.

Thomas served as archbishop of York until his death in 1114, overseeing church affairs in northern England. He worked to assert York’s independence from Canterbury and managed disputes between the clergy and local nobility. His tenure saw the strengthening of ecclesiastical courts and administrative reforms. Thomas participated in negotiations with the monarchy to protect church privileges. His diplomatic skills and commitment to reform helped shape the structure of the northern English church during a pivotal era.

Born in 1345, Charles ascended to the Neapolitan throne in 1382 amid intense dynastic conflict. He pursued a claim to the Hungarian crown after the death of Louis I but faced significant resistance from local nobility. His rule involved alliances with the Papacy and efforts to consolidate his realm’s political stability. Known as 'the Short' for his stature, he was also a patron of the arts and architecture. His assassination in 1386 abruptly ended his ambitions and underscored the volatility of 14th-century European politics.

Eberhard I, known as 'the Bearded', was born in 1445 and ruled as Count of Württemberg before becoming duke in 1495. He negotiated with Emperor Frederick III to raise Württemberg’s status and secured greater autonomy within the Holy Roman Empire. Eberhard implemented legal and economic reforms that strengthened his territory’s governance. He patronized the arts and commissioned architectural projects, including churches and castles. His leadership laid the foundations for Württemberg’s rise as a significant regional power. Eberhard’s death in 1496 marked the end of a transformative reign.

Jacques de La Palice was born in 1470 into a prominent French noble family. He rose through the ranks of the French army and was appointed Marshal of France by King Francis I. La Palice distinguished himself in campaigns across Italy, demonstrating tactical skill and personal bravery. He fought at the Battle of Pavia in 1525, where he was killed during the French defeat. His reputation endured, giving rise to the term 'La Palice truths' in French military folklore. His career exemplifies the valor and uncertainties of early 16th-century warfare.

Guillaume Gouffier, seigneur de Bonnivet, was a key advisor and military leader under King Francis I of France. He held the title of Admiral of France and led naval and land forces during the Italian Wars. Bonnivet’s political influence at the French court matched his military responsibilities. He commanded troops at the Battle of Pavia in 1525 and was killed in action during the French defeat. His death had a significant impact on the French leadership structure. Bonnivet’s career reflects the intertwined nature of nobility and military command in Renaissance France.

Richard de la Pole was born in 1480 into the exiled Yorkist line of the English royal family. After his brother’s death, he became the principal Yorkist claimant to the throne, challenging the Tudor dynasty. He served at the French court and took part in invasions of England supported by France. Known as the 'White Rose', he fought at the Battle of Pavia in 1525, where he was killed in combat. His death effectively ended Yorkist resistance to Tudor rule. His life illustrates the enduring dynastic conflicts and international entanglements of 16th-century Europe.

Properzia de' Rossi emerged in early 16th-century Bologna as a talented sculptor working primarily in marble. She trained in her family’s workshop and produced notable reliefs and decorative sculptures for churches and palaces. Her most acclaimed work depicts the biblical story of Joseph and Potiphar’s wife, earning praise from her contemporaries. De' Rossi’s achievements challenged gender norms in the male-dominated art world of the Renaissance. She was admired by fellow artists and mentioned by Vasari in his Lives. Although many of her works have been lost, her surviving pieces continue to inspire studies of women in Renaissance art.

Born into the prominent Guise family in 1519, Francis rose to become Duke of Guise and a leading Catholic champion. He secured a major victory at the Siege of Metz in 1552, showcasing his strategic brilliance and courage. Renowned as "Le Balafré" after surviving several wounds, he was both feared and admired on the battlefield. His feud with Protestant admiral Gaspard de Coligny intensified the conflicts of the era. A patron of fortifications and the arts, he bolstered his family's influence in French politics. His assassination in 1563 by a Protestant agent sent shockwaves through France and deepened the Wars of Religion.

Born into one of England’s oldest aristocratic families, Henry FitzAlan inherited the earldom of Arundel at a young age. He served as Lord Chamberlain to both Queen Mary I and Queen Elizabeth I, skillfully navigating religious and political upheaval. A generous patron of the arts, he transformed Arundel Castle into a cultural center for scholars and artists. His diplomatic acumen helped stabilize the Tudor court during periods of crisis and succession tensions. Despite occasional exile from court, his wealth and influence remained unmatched among the peerage. His death in 1580 marked the end of a distinguished career in Tudor politics.