March 28

Samuel Sewall (1652–1730) was an influential colonial judge and businessman in Massachusetts Bay Colony. As a member of the court during the Salem witch trials of 1692, he played a key judicial role in the proceedings that led to the execution of accused witches. Decades later, he publicly apologized in 1697, making him one of the first to acknowledge the injustice of the trials. Beyond his judicial work, he was a successful merchant, printer, and author of one of the earliest American diaries, offering insights into colonial life. Sewall championed moral reform and contributed to early discussions on slavery and personal liberty. His candid reflections and apology have cemented his place in American legal and social history.

Born in 1760, Thomas Clarkson was an English abolitionist whose research and campaigning were instrumental in the passage of the Slave Trade Act of 1807. He collected firsthand accounts of the horrors faced by enslaved Africans and presented them to Parliament and the public. Clarkson traveled across Britain gathering evidence and testimonials from sailors, merchants, and former slaves to build a compelling case against the trade. His work led to the formation of the Society for Effecting the Abolition of the Slave Trade, alongside figures like William Wilberforce. He continued to fight for emancipation and human rights throughout his life, leaving a legacy as a pioneer of humanitarian reform.

Often called "Swifty Lazar", Irving Paul Lazar began his career as a lawyer before transitioning to talent representation in the 1930s. He negotiated landmark contracts for some of Hollywood's biggest stars, authors, and journalists. Lazar's keen negotiation skills and discretion made him a trusted advisor in the entertainment industry. Over several decades, he handled deals for luminaries like Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, and Ernest Hemingway. His success helped shape the modern talent agency model and the economics of film and publishing. Lazar remained active until his death, leaving behind a legacy of high-profile deals and a reputation for swift, effective negotiation.

Born into one of Spain's oldest noble families, Cayetana Fitz-James Stuart inherited a remarkable collection of hereditary titles and estates. She held a Guinness World Record for the most noble titles. A passionate art patron, she supported museums, exhibitions, and numerous cultural initiatives across Spain. Known for her flamboyant style and social grace, she was a fixture of European high society for decades. She married twice and had six children, ensuring the continuation of the House of Alba. Her passing in 2014 marked the end of an era in Spanish aristocracy.