March 30

Born in 1874, Charles Lightoller joined the Royal Navy before serving as second officer aboard the RMS Titanic. He oversaw the loading of lifeboats and was the most senior officer to survive the sinking in 1912. Lightoller later returned to naval service during World War I, commanding vessels in the English Channel. During World War II, he captained a civilian boat in the Dunkirk evacuation, helping rescue thousands of soldiers. After a lifelong maritime career, he wrote a memoir of his experiences and became an enduring figure in Titanic lore. Lightoller passed away in 1952, leaving a legacy of courage and duty at sea.

Brooke Astor (1902–2007) was an American socialite, philanthropist, and society figure who transformed New York City's philanthropic landscape. As the chairwoman of the Vincent Astor Foundation, she championed education, the arts, and social services, donating millions to causes such as the New York Public Library and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Her elegance and dedication earned her respect across social circles. Astor authored The Last Mrs. Astor, offering insights into America's elite. Even in her 90s, she remained active in fundraising and charity boards. Brooke Astor's enduring legacy is her impact on civic institutions and her embodiment of altruism.

Albert Pierrepoint (1905–1992) was a British executioner who served as the principal hangman of the United Kingdom. From the 1930s to the 1950s, he performed over 400 executions, including those of prominent war criminals after World War II. Known for his meticulous technique and austere demeanor, Pierrepoint believed in the death penalty as a deterrent but later expressed doubts about its efficacy. His memoir, Executioner, offered a candid account of his experiences and the moral complexities of his role. After retiring, he ran a pub and advocated for more humane treatment of prisoners. Pierrepoint remains a controversial figure, emblematic of the era's attitudes toward capital punishment.

Nigel Jones, Baron Jones of Cheltenham, was a British politician and computer programmer. He represented the Cheltenham constituency as a Conservative MP between 1992 and 2005. Before entering politics, Jones worked in the software industry, developing computer systems. After losing his Commons seat, he was elevated to the House of Lords in 2005. In Parliament, he focused on local government reform, education, and civil liberties. His dual background in technology and politics allowed him to advocate for modernizing government services.

Shahla Sherkat began her career in journalism and rose to prominence after founding Zanan magazine in 1992, Iran's first weekly publication dedicated to women's issues. Under her leadership, Zanan tackled taboo topics such as domestic violence and gender equality and became a symbol of female empowerment. The magazine was banned in 2008 following its critical stance on social and political norms, but Sherkat continued her advocacy through digital platforms. As an author, she has written essays and editorial pieces that highlight the challenges faced by Iranian women. Sherkat's work has earned her international recognition and inspired a new generation of female journalists in the Middle East.

Marie-Christine Koundja began her professional life as a writer, publishing works that explore social dynamics and Chadian identity. She later joined the diplomatic service, representing Chad at international forums and strengthening cultural ties. Koundja's novels and essays have been praised for their insightful portrayal of modern African society and women's experiences. In her diplomatic role, she has worked on cultural exchange programs and advocated for educational initiatives. Her career reflects a blend of literary creativity and diplomatic leadership, making her a prominent figure in both fields.

Born in 1965 in Newick, England, Piers Morgan began his career in journalism at the News of the World and later became editor of British tabloids including the Daily Mirror. He moved to the United States to work for The New York Post and gained international fame as a judge on America's Got Talent. Morgan hosted Good Morning Britain from 2015 to 2021, becoming known for his outspoken style and high-profile interviews. He has authored multiple books recounting his media career and opinions. Morgan's career has been marked by both acclaim for his interviewing prowess and controversy over his forthright commentary.