April 16

Born in 1867, Wilbur Wright and his brother Orville conducted groundbreaking research on aerodynamics and flight control. Their landmark achievement came in 1903 at Kitty Hawk when they completed the first sustained, controlled, powered airplane flight. The Wright brothers' innovations in wing design, engine development, and three-axis control transformed the field of aviation. They secured patents and demonstrated their aircraft in Europe and the United States, laying the commercial foundations of the aerospace industry. Wilbur's meticulous engineering and practical tests paved the way for future breakthroughs in flight. Although he died in 1912, his legacy endures in every modern aircraft that takes to the skies.

Ronald Barnes, 3rd Baron Gorell, was born in 1884 and inherited his title in 1917. As a talented cricketer, he played for the Marylebone Cricket Club and made significant contributions on the field before turning to journalism. He wrote insightful articles on current affairs and later took an active role in politics as a member of the House of Lords. His multifaceted career spanned sports, media, and public service, reflecting his diverse interests and talents. Barnes remained a respected voice in British public life until his death in 1963.

Dora Richter was a German transgender woman who became the first known individual to undergo complete male-to-female gender-affirming surgery. Her surgeries were performed in Berlin in the early 1930s under the direction of pioneering sexologist Magnus Hirschfeld. Richter's case provided critical medical and social insights into transgender health during a period of groundbreaking research. She lived and worked in the Institute for Sexual Research before it was destroyed by the Nazis in 1933. Despite the challenges of her time, Richter's courage paved the way for future advances in transgender medicine. Her story remains a significant milestone in the history of gender-affirming care and LGBTQ+ rights.

Robert Henry Best was an American journalist and broadcaster active in Europe before and during World War II. Initially reporting for prominent newspapers, he later provided radio broadcasts supporting the Nazi regime. Best's propaganda work earned him infamy and led to his arrest by American authorities after the war. In 1948, he was convicted of treason in the United States and sentenced to life imprisonment. Best spent several decades incarcerated before receiving clemency late in life. His case remains a cautionary tale about the responsibilities of journalism and the perils of propaganda.

Born as Pearl Polsky, Polly Adler emigrated from Russia to the United States and became one of the most prominent madams of the 1920s and 1930s. She managed a chain of brothels that catered to New York City's elite, forging connections with celebrities and politicians. Adler later turned to writing and published her memoir 'A House Is Not a Home,' offering a vivid account of Jazz Age society. Her storytelling provided valuable historical insights into the era's contradictions and cultural dynamics. Adler's life inspired films and books, cementing her legacy as a vibrant and complex figure in American history. Despite controversies, her literary work remains a unique document of Prohibition-era life.

Joseph-Armand Bombardier revolutionized winter transportation with his invention of the snowmobile, enabling travel across snowy terrains. In 1942, he founded Bombardier Limited, which grew from a family workshop into a major aerospace and transportation conglomerate. His innovative designs addressed the challenges of Quebec's harsh winters, earning widespread acclaim. Bombardier's company later diversified into rail and aircraft manufacturing, becoming a global industry leader. He held numerous patents and prioritized research and development throughout his career. Known for his entrepreneurial vision, he mentored engineers and fostered a culture of innovation. His impact endures through world-renowned transportation solutions and the global presence of Bombardier Inc.

Ellis Marsalis Sr. was a prominent banker and community leader in New Orleans, founding the Liberty Bank and Trust Company. He advocated for African American economic empowerment and supported civil rights initiatives throughout his life. Marsalis worked to improve education, housing, and business opportunities for Black residents in his hometown. As a civic leader, he served on various boards and organizations promoting social justice and community welfare. His efforts helped lay the groundwork for increased minority participation in the financial sector. Marsalis was recognized nationally for his contributions to civil rights and business development. His legacy continues through his family's musical achievements and ongoing community impact.

Berton Roueché specialized in medical and science writing, making complex topics accessible to general readers. From 1946 to 1994, he contributed the popular 'Annals of Medicine' column to The New Yorker magazine. His investigative reporting delved into unusual medical cases, public health issues, and epidemiology. Roueché authored several books compiling his articles, including 'The Medical Detectives' and 'Eleven Blue Men'. His narrative style combined rigorous research with compelling storytelling, influencing generations of health journalists. Roueché's work raised awareness of disease outbreaks and medical curiosities during the 20th century. His legacy endures in medical literature and journalistic practices.

Guy Burgess was born in 1911 in Devon, England. He studied at Cambridge University where he was recruited by Soviet intelligence in the 1930s. As a diplomat and MI6 officer, he passed classified documents to the NKVD alongside other members of the Cambridge Five. In 1951, Burgess defected to the Soviet Union to avoid arrest, becoming a symbol of Cold War espionage. He lived in Moscow until his death in 1963, leaving behind a legacy of intrigue and betrayal that continues to fascinate historians.

Born in 1917, Victoria Eugenia Fernández de Córdoba inherited the title of Duchess of Medinaceli, one of Spain's oldest and most prestigious noble families. She managed extensive family estates and curated an important collection of art and antiques. As a patron of the arts and philanthropy, she supported cultural institutions and charitable causes. Her leadership helped preserve the Medinaceli heritage through Spain's political and social changes of the 20th century. She passed away in 2013, leaving a legacy of stewardship and cultural conservation.

Baroness Joan Bakewell is an English journalist, television presenter, and author. Born in 1933, she became a pioneering female voice on British current affairs and arts programs. Bakewell wrote columns for national newspapers and published books on culture and society. She championed women’s issues and promoted the arts on and off screen throughout her career. In 2014, she was appointed to the House of Lords as Baroness Bakewell of Stockport. Her work across media has made her a respected figure in British journalism.

Ike Pappas was an American journalist and occasional actor best known for his work on CBS News. Born in 1933, he reported on pivotal moments such as President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. Pappas delivered live coverage from breaking news scenes, earning a reputation for composed reporting. He appeared in cameo roles in films and television, showcasing his on-screen presence. Throughout his career, he received multiple awards for journalistic excellence. He passed away in 2008, leaving a legacy of insightful reporting on some of the 20th century’s most significant events.