April 22

Born Li Chan in 814, he ascended the throne in 840 and favored Taoist practices, issuing edicts that led to the closure of Buddhist monasteries and the confiscation of temple property. Wuzong's reign was marked by efforts to centralize imperial authority and restore fiscal stability, using recovered assets to support the state treasury. He also led military campaigns to defend against northern and western tribes threatening Tang borders. His persecution of Buddhism and other foreign religions dramatically reshaped China's religious landscape. Emperor Wuzong died in 846 at the age of 32, leaving a complex legacy of both reform and religious suppression.

Appointed in 1197, Philip of Poitou wielded both spiritual and temporal power as the Prince-Bishop of Durham, a role that made him a key figure in northern England's border region. He managed the defense and administration of the Palatinate of Durham, maintaining royal interests while overseeing church affairs. Philip negotiated with local nobility and the English crown to secure the diocese's privileges and revenues. He initiated building projects at Durham Cathedral and reformed diocesan governance. The prince-bishop died in 1208, leaving behind a legacy of effective leadership in one of medieval England's most strategic territories.

Born in 1318 as the eldest daughter of King Edward II of England, Eleanor was married in 1332 to Reginald II, Count of Guelders. Upon her husband's death in 1343, she served as regent for her young son, guiding the county during a period of political uncertainty. Eleanor negotiated alliances with neighboring principalities and managed internal conflicts, demonstrating diplomatic skill and governance. Her tenure strengthened Guelders' ties to English and imperial courts, enhancing its strategic position. Eleanor died in 1355, leaving a legacy as one of medieval Europe's notable female rulers.

Born in 1550 into the ducal house of Saxe-Lauenburg, Henry was elected Prince-Archbishop of Bremen in 1567 at the age of 17. He later assumed the titles of Prince-Bishop of Osnabrück in 1574 and Prince-Bishop of Paderborn in 1577, exercising both secular and spiritual authority across these regions. His tenure coincided with the Reformation, and he navigated complex religious landscapes by mediating between Protestant and Catholic interests. Henry implemented administrative reforms, supported cultural patronage, and oversaw economic development within his bishoprics. He died in 1585, remembered for his multifaceted governance and contribution to the Holy Roman Empire's ecclesiastical politics.

Nicolás Bravo (1786–1854) was a hero of the Mexican War of Independence. He joined the insurgent movement under José María Morelos and became a key military leader. Bravo served multiple times as interim President of Mexico, overseeing crucial political transitions. His tenure included efforts to stabilize the young republic and manage internal conflicts. A devoted patriot, he held various high offices including Vice President. His legacy is celebrated for both his battlefield courage and statesmanship.

Born in 1806 in Puebla, Carrera began his military career at a young age. He distinguished himself in battles against Spanish loyalists and in internal conflicts. In 1855, after the fall of Santa Anna, he was appointed interim President of Mexico. During his short tenure, he sought to stabilize the country and oversee peaceful elections. He later served in military and diplomatic roles under the liberal government. Carrera's efforts helped pave the way for Mexico's Reform Laws. He died on April 22, 1871, leaving a legacy as a key figure in mid-19th-century Mexico.

Born in 1836 in Glasgow, Campbell-Bannerman entered politics at a young age. He led the Liberal Party to a landslide victory in the 1906 general election. His government introduced social reforms in education, labor rights, and welfare. Campbell-Bannerman granted self-rule to the Transvaal and Orange River colonies. Known for his modest demeanor and moral conviction, he redefined political leadership. He resigned due to ill health and died on April 22, 1908, shortly after leaving office.

Born in 1913 in Yorba Linda, California, Richard Nixon served as a naval officer during World War II. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1946 and the Senate in 1950. As Vice President under Dwight D. Eisenhower, Nixon became a prominent national figure. He won the presidency in 1968, opening diplomatic relations with China and promising 'peace with honor' in Vietnam. His administration established the Environmental Protection Agency and pursued détente with the Soviet Union. The Watergate break-in and ensuing cover-up led to his resignation in 1974, making him the only U.S. president to resign from office. After leaving the White House, Nixon authored numerous books and toured the world as a statesman until his death in 1994.

Juanita Millender-McDonald was born in 1938 in Birmingham, Alabama and began her career as a teacher and academic administrator. She served in the California State Assembly before being elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1996, representing California’s 37th district. Millender-McDonald was the first African American woman to chair the House Administration Committee and was a leading voice on immigration reform and small business issues. She championed educational opportunities, civil rights, and women's advancement throughout her tenure. Friends and colleagues remembered her as a dedicated public servant committed to her constituents. Juanita Millender-McDonald died on April 22, 2007, leaving a legacy of leadership and advocacy.