March 17

Titus Labienus began his career as an able legate under Julius Caesar, playing a major role in the conquest of Gaul. When civil war erupted in 49 BC, Labienus sided with Pompey the Great and led Pompeian forces in Spain. He demonstrated tactical skill at the Battle of Ilerda but was ultimately defeated at Munda in 45 BC. His defection marked a significant turning point in the Roman civil war and influenced Caesar's campaigns. Labienus's military career continues to be studied for its lessons in loyalty and strategy.

Publius Attius Varus served as governor of the Africa Province and raised legions in support of Pompey the Great. He secured an early victory against Caesar's lieutenant Gaius Scribonius Curio but was later outmaneuvered by Julius Caesar's main forces. Varus commanded Pompeian troops at the Battle of Thapsus in 46 BC and suffered a decisive defeat. After the loss, he fled by sea and died in 45 BC. His career exemplifies the political and military turbulence of the late Roman Republic.

Marcus Aurelius co-ruled with Lucius Verus before becoming sole emperor and overseeing the eastern and northern frontiers of the Roman Empire. He faced wars against Parthians and Germanic tribes while maintaining stability during the Pax Romana. A devoted Stoic, he wrote Meditations as a guide to self-discipline and virtue. His philosophical work became a cornerstone of Stoicism and influenced thinkers for centuries. Marcus Aurelius's reign blended intellectual rigor with practical leadership, leaving a lasting legacy on both philosophy and governance.

Gertrude of Nivelles was born into the Frankish nobility and, along with her mother Itta, established the monastery of Nivelles around 642. She served as abbess for 17 years, guiding the community in prayer, scholarship, and charity. Gertrude's hospitality attracted pilgrims, and she cared for the poor and sick. After her death in 659, she was venerated as a patron saint of travelers and gardeners. Her legacy endures in legends and the continued importance of Nivelles as a site of pilgrimage.

Haito began his monastic life at Reichenau Abbey before becoming its abbot in the early 9th century. As Bishop of Basel from 802, he implemented church reforms and improved clerical education. He issued the Capitulare Haitonis, a set of regulations for monastic life and discipline. Haito also served at Charlemagne's court, advising on religious and political matters. His work helped shape the Carolingian Renaissance and strengthened ties between church and empire.

Li Yu, known as the Prince of De, was a member of the imperial family during the late Tang dynasty. In the aftermath of rebellions and court intrigues, he was placed on the throne but ruled only for a short period. His reign was marked by efforts to restore stability to a crumbling empire beset by warlordism. Soon after, he was deposed as rival factions vied for power. Li Yu died in 905, and his brief tenure reflects the decline of Tang authority prior to the dynasty's collapse.

Emperor Kazan ascended the Chrysanthemum Throne in 984 at the age of 16. His reign saw political maneuvering among Fujiwara regents, leading him to abdicate in 986. After abdication, Kazan entered monastic life at Kannon-ji temple and adopted the Buddhist name Nyakazari. He founded the Toji-in temple in Kyoto and was revered for his piety. His life illustrates the complex interplay of religion and politics in Heian Japan.

Harold Harefoot was the son of King Canute and Ælfgifu of Northampton. After Canute's death, he asserted his claim against his half-brother Harthacnut and established his rule in the north. Despite disputes over legitimacy, Harold maintained authority until Harthacnut returned from Denmark. His reign was marked by political factionalism and shifting loyalties among the English nobility. He died in 1040, paving the way for Harthacnut's accession.

Lulach was the stepson of King Macbeth and assumed the Scottish throne after Macbeth's death at Lumphanan. Nicknamed 'Lulach the Fool', he struggled to consolidate power amid rival claims. His short reign ended when Malcolm III defeated him at Essie in 1058. Lulach was killed soon after, and Malcolm solidified his rule. Lulach's reign represents a turbulent moment in early Scottish monarchy and succession politics.

Jocelin entered monastic life at Melrose Abbey before being appointed Bishop of Glasgow in 1175. He reorganized the diocese, improved clerical discipline, and fostered the construction of Glasgow Cathedral. Jocelin strengthened ties with the Scottish monarchy, securing royal support for church autonomy. He also convened synods to address ecclesiastical issues and promoted education. His leadership laid the foundations for Glasgow's emergence as a major religious center.

Pierre de Montreuil was a master mason and architect active in 13th-century France. He is credited with significant contributions to the design of the choir and transept of Notre-Dame de Paris. His work also influenced the construction of the Sainte-Chapelle, showcasing the emerging Rayonnant Gothic style. Montreuil's innovative use of pointed arches and ribbed vaults helped define the architectural landscape of medieval Paris. Though much of his life remains obscure, his surviving structures stand as a testament to his skill and vision. He died in 1267, leaving a legacy that continued to inspire Gothic architects across Europe.

Philip of Montfort was a French noble and crusader active during the mid-13th century. He held the lordships of Castres and later Tyre in the Kingdom of Jerusalem. As a key military leader, he supported King Louis IX during the Seventh Crusade. Montfort navigated the complex politics of the crusader states, forging alliances with European and Levantine nobles. He was known for his martial prowess and diplomatic skill in the Holy Land. Philip of Montfort was killed in 1270, leaving a notable mark on crusader history.