March 26

Emerging in the chaotic aftermath of the Tang Dynasty's fall, Wang Du asserted control over the Chengde Circuit (modern Hebei province) as military governor. He maintained a delicate balance of power between rival regimes, securing his position through strategic alliances and local support. Known for his administrative reforms, he invested in the region's infrastructure and military defenses. His rule faced constant challenges from neighboring warlords and the Later Tang court. In 929, Wang Du was defeated by Li Cunxu's forces and died in exile, marking the end of his regional autonomy. His tenure exemplifies the shifting loyalties and fragmentary authority of early 10th-century China.

John Addison Thomas was born in 1811 and graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point. He served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, working on key infrastructure projects. After resigning his commission, he transitioned into public service and diplomacy. Thomas was appointed Third Assistant Secretary of State, overseeing diplomatic correspondence and administrative affairs. He contributed to shaping early American foreign policy under President Franklin Pierce. Thomas died on March 26, 1858, leaving a legacy of military and diplomatic service.

Uriah P. Levy was born in 1792 in Philadelphia and became the first Jewish Commodore in the United States Navy. He joined the Navy as a midshipman at age eleven and served with distinction during the War of 1812 and the Barbary Wars. Levy was a vocal opponent of corporal punishment and successfully campaigned to abolish flogging in the Navy. He purchased and restored Thomas Jefferson's estate, Monticello, preserving it for future generations. His leadership and reform efforts had lasting impact on naval discipline and heritage. Levy died on March 26, 1862, and is remembered as a pioneering naval officer and preservationist.

Roman Sanguszko was born in 1800 into Polish nobility and pursued a military career that led to his promotion as a general. He served in the Polish uprisings and later devoted himself to activism promoting national culture and education under foreign rule. Sanguszko used his status to support charitable initiatives and foster a sense of Polish identity during the 19th century. He was recognized among his peers for both his leadership skills on the battlefield and his commitment to social causes. His work helped sustain Polish traditions through a period of political upheaval. Sanguszko died on March 26, 1881, leaving a legacy of patriotism and reform.

Anson Stager was born in 1825 in Ohio and became a pioneer in telegraphy during the American Civil War. Appointed head of the Military Telegraph Corps by President Lincoln, he organized secure communications that proved vital to Union strategy. His leadership earned him the rank of general and recognition for innovation in battlefield coordination. After the war, Stager co-founded Western Union, shaping the future of national and international communications. He also served as President of Western Union and oversaw its expansion across the United States. Stager died on March 26, 1885, leaving a lasting impact on both military communications and civilian telegraphy.

Leonard James Callaghan was a British Labour leader who held every one of the UK's Great Offices of State. Born in Portsmouth in 1912, he served as a lieutenant in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve during World War II. Elected to Parliament in 1945, he served as Chancellor of the Exchequer, Home Secretary, and Foreign Secretary. In 1976, he became Prime Minister, navigating the country through economic challenges and the 'Winter of Discontent'. After losing the 1979 election to Margaret Thatcher, he remained active as Baron Callaghan of Cardiff in the House of Lords. Renowned for his calm demeanor and dedication to public service, he left a mark on post-war British politics. He passed away on March 26, 2005, at the age of 92.