March 13

Leland Stanford Jr. was born into a prominent American family during the era of rapid railroad expansion. He contracted typhoid fever while touring Europe with his parents and died at the age of 15. In his memory, his parents, Leland and Jane Stanford, founded Stanford University on their Palo Alto estate. The institution was dedicated as a memorial to their son, aiming to promote education accessible to all. Though he never attended college, his name lives on through one of the world's leading research universities. Stanford Jr.'s brief life had a lasting impact on American higher education. The university's motto 'Die Luft der Freiheit weht' honors the ideals his parents associated with his memory.

Born in 1820 in Massachusetts, Susan B. Anthony became a central figure in the fight for women's voting rights. In 1848 she attended the Seneca Falls Convention and dedicated her life to gender equality. She co-founded the National Woman Suffrage Association with Elizabeth Cady Stanton and traveled thousands of miles lecturing and organizing. Her arrest in 1872 for voting illegally in the presidential election brought national attention to the suffrage cause. Though she did not live to cast a vote herself, her tireless activism laid the groundwork for the 19th Amendment. Anthony's legacy endures as a symbol of perseverance in the struggle for civil rights.

Born in 1836 in Lower Canada, Eugène-Étienne Taché was a prominent engineer and architect during the late 19th century. He was appointed provincial land surveyor before joining the Department of Crown Lands. Taché's most famous work is the Parliament Building in Quebec City, completed in 1886 and still a landmark of provincial government. He also coined the motto 'Je me souviens,' which appears on Quebec license plates today. Beyond architecture, Taché supported education and cultural preservation in his homeland. His designs combined practical function with neoclassical style, influencing Canadian civic architecture. He passed away in 1912, leaving a lasting legacy in Quebec's built environment.

Born in 1857 in Ohio, Clarence Darrow became one of America's most famous criminal defense lawyers. He gained national attention defending labor activists and prosecuting prohibition violations. Darrow's most celebrated cases include the 1924 Leopold and Loeb trial and the 1925 Scopes 'Monkey' Trial on evolution. A staunch agnostic and civil libertarian, he argued for individual rights and challenged social injustices. In addition to his legal career, Darrow authored plays, essays, and memoirs reflecting his views on law and morality. His eloquence in court and passionate advocacy made him a cultural icon of early 20th-century America. He died in 1938, leaving a legacy as a pioneer of modern defense tactics and civil rights.

Born in 1905, Lise Lindbæk was Norway's first female war correspondent. She reported from conflict zones including the Spanish Civil War and the Winter War, bringing frontline stories to the public. Her vivid dispatches highlighted civilian suffering and humanitarian issues. Lindbæk's fearless reporting inspired a generation of journalists. She also covered post-war reconstruction before her death in 1961.

Born in 1891, Vittorio Jano revolutionized automotive engineering with his innovative engine and chassis designs for Alfa Romeo. He joined Fiat in 1937 and later Lancia, influencing pre-war and post-war racing success. Jano's dual overhead camshaft V6 and V12 engines set new standards for power and efficiency. His designs powered numerous Grand Prix and sports cars, earning him acclaim in motor racing. Jano's legacy endures in modern engine architecture.

Born in France, Odette Hallowes served as a nurse and volunteered for the British Special Operations Executive under the codename 'Odette.' She delivered critical intelligence in occupied France before her 1943 capture by the Gestapo. Enduring torture and imprisonment in Ravensbrück concentration camp, she managed a daring escape as Allied forces advanced. After the war, she was awarded the George Cross, Croix de Guerre, and Légion d'honneur for her bravery. Her memoirs recount a story of resilience and sacrifice that inspired future generations.

Kieślowski began his career directing documentaries that showcased everyday life under communism. He gained international renown with 'Dekalog,' a ten-part series exploring moral dilemmas inspired by the Ten Commandments. His 'Three Colors' trilogy ('Blue,' 'White,' 'Red') delved into themes of liberty, equality, and fraternity, earning awards at Cannes and beyond. Collaborating with composer Zbigniew Preisner, he crafted visually poetic narratives that examined human connection and fate. His films continue to influence directors and audiences with their depth and emotional resonance.

Garson Kanin began his career writing the Broadway play 'Born Yesterday,' which won acclaim for its sharp wit and social commentary. He adapted the work into a successful 1950 film starring Judy Holliday. Kanin later collaborated with Ruth Gordon on the screenplay for 'Adam's Rib,' directing the 1949 on-screen version starring Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy. Beyond theater and film, he wrote novels and memoirs chronicling his experiences across both industries. His versatile talents and keen storytelling sense left a lasting mark on American entertainment.

John A. Alonzo's career spanned over four decades, during which he broke barriers as one of Hollywood's first prominent Latino cinematographers. His signature work on Roman Polanski's 'Chinatown' (1974) earned an Academy Award nomination and highlighted his mastery of light and shadow. He then shaped the iconic visual style of Brian De Palma's 'Scarface,' creating unforgettable imagery. Beyond his role behind the camera, Alonzo appeared in films and television as an actor. His pioneering achievements opened doors for future generations of cinematographers and actors of diverse backgrounds.

Murray Walker was an iconic English motorsport commentator whose career spanned over five decades. Starting as a journalist covering motorcycle races, he joined the BBC in 1970 to commentate on Formula One. His energetic style, memorable catchphrases like "Unless I'm very much mistaken...", and deep passion for racing endeared him to fans worldwide. Despite occasional on-air errors, his honesty and warmth made him one of the sport's most beloved figures. He covered more than 500 Grands Prix and authored several influential books on motorsport history. Walker was awarded an MBE for his services to broadcasting and became a beloved ambassador for racing culture. Even after retiring in 2001, he continued to write, speak, and share his insights until his passing in 2021.

John Feinstein was a distinguished American sportswriter whose work brought college basketball and professional golf to life. He authored over 30 books, including bestsellers such as "A Season on the Brink" and "The Majors". Feinstein's immersive storytelling provided readers with behind-the-scenes access to coaches, athletes, and tournaments. He served as a columnist for The Washington Post and offered commentary on NPR and television networks. Feinstein also hosted The John Feinstein Show on SiriusXM, sharing expert analysis and interviews with sports figures. His contributions earned him induction into the National Sports Media Association Hall of Fame. He continued writing and broadcasting until his passing in 2025.