March 09

Paul Elmer More was an American journalist and critic born in 1864. He wrote for publications such as The Nation and The Dial, shaping early 20th-century literary discourse. More's essays often explored the interplay between culture, religion, and ethics. He was a leading voice of the conservative 'Tractarian' movement in the United States. His collections, including 'Shelburne Essays,' are noted for their erudition and elegant prose. More's work influenced generations of American thinkers and solidified his reputation as a profound essayist.

Born in Belize in 1937, he pursued legal studies at the University of the West Indies and in the United Kingdom. Called to the bar, he returned to Belize and rose through the judiciary with a reputation for integrity and fairness. In the 1990s, he was appointed Chief Justice, overseeing the Supreme Court and guiding landmark constitutional decisions. He championed judicial independence and access to justice for all citizens, modernizing court procedures. He retired after a distinguished tenure and passed away in 1999, leaving a lasting impact on Belize’s legal framework.

Tom Fox was born in 1951 and devoted his life to nonviolent activism and human rights. As a member of the Christian Peacemaker Teams, he worked in Colombia, the West Bank, Kosovo, and Iraq to support vulnerable communities. Fox advocated for peaceful resolution of conflicts and bore witness to human rights abuses. In November 2005, he was kidnapped in Baghdad along with three colleagues. After months in captivity, he was tragically killed by militants on March 9, 2006. His commitment to peace, courage in the face of danger, and compassionate spirit inspired activists worldwide. Fox's legacy continues through the ongoing work of the organizations he served and the lives he touched.

David S. Broder (1929–2011) was a renowned journalist and political analyst for The Washington Post. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War before earning his Ph.D. in political science at Georgetown University. His column, “Washington Sketch,” appeared for decades and earned him the 1973 Pulitzer Prize for Commentary. Broder taught journalism at both the University of Maryland and Georgetown University, mentoring countless reporters. He was celebrated for his fair-minded coverage of Capitol Hill and presidential politics. Known affectionately as the “Dean of the Washington Press Corps,” his insights shaped public understanding of American government. His integrity and dedication set a high bar for political journalism.

Max Jakobson (1923–2013) was a Finnish journalist-turned-diplomat noted for his international leadership. Before entering the diplomatic service, he worked as a foreign correspondent for Finnish newspapers. He served as Finland’s Ambassador to the United Nations from 1965 to 1971, earning a nomination for UN Secretary-General. Later he acted as Under-Secretary-General of the Nordic Council, influencing regional cooperation during the Cold War. Jakobson authored several books on Nordic neutrality and Cold War geopolitics that remain reference works. His career bridged media and diplomacy, shaping Finland’s global reputation. He was widely respected for his principled approach to international affairs.

Roger Mudd was born in 1928 and began his journalism career in print before moving to television with CBS News in 1953. He covered landmark U.S. Senate hearings, the Civil Rights Movement, and presidential campaigns. His 1968 NBC News interview with Senator Ted Kennedy is considered one of the most influential political interviews in television history. Mudd served as anchor and correspondent for both CBS and NBC News, including stints on 'NBC Nightly News.' Known for his clear, unbiased reporting style, he received multiple Emmy Awards over a five-decade career. After retiring, he lectured on journalism and remained a respected voice in media until his death.