April 29

Chester Ashley (1790–1848) was an American lawyer, landowner, and politician. He served as one of the first U.S. Senators from Arkansas after its admission to the Union. Ashley was influential in the development of the state's legal and political systems. As a senator, he supported infrastructure projects such as river navigation and transportation improvements. He was respected for his legal expertise and eloquent public service. His sudden death in 1848 cut short a career marked by commitment to Arkansas's growth.

Henry Paget, 1st Marquess of Anglesey (1768–1854) was a distinguished British soldier and politician. He played a decisive role commanding the Allied cavalry at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, contributing to the defeat of Napoleon. For his military achievements, he was promoted to field marshal and honored with the title Marquess of Anglesey. Following his military career, he served as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland from 1828 to 1833, representing the Crown. Paget was known for his aristocratic bearing, fashionable lifestyle, and commitment to public duty. His life bridged both military valor and high political office during a transformative era in British history.

Godfrey Carter (1830–1903) was an influential Australian entrepreneur and public servant. He built his reputation in Melbourne as a successful businessman in the mid-19th century. Elected as the city's 39th Mayor, he oversaw urban improvements and civic projects that shaped the growing metropolis. Carter advocated for public works including road expansions, sanitation, and community facilities. His leadership during a period of rapid growth helped modernize Melbourne's city administration. After his mayoral term, he remained active in civic affairs and philanthropic endeavors.

Richard Croker (1843–1922) was an Irish immigrant who rose to become the leader of New York City's Tammany Hall political machine. Under his leadership, Tammany Hall controlled municipal elections and patronage, shaping city governance in the late 19th century. Croker was known for his organizational skills, charisma, and ability to mobilize immigrant communities. He forged alliances across social classes, securing support for urban development projects and social services. Despite controversies and accusations of corruption, his tenure left a lasting imprint on New York City's political landscape. After retiring from politics, he returned to Ireland, where he remained a notable figure until his death.

Born in 1876, Clay Stone Briggs was educated at the University of Texas before entering politics. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1903 as a Democrat representing Texas's 8th district. Briggs chaired the House Committee on War Claims and was known for his advocacy on behalf of veterans. During his three decades in Congress, he navigated issues from infrastructure to wartime legislation. He remained in office until his death on April 29, 1933, leaving a legacy of dedicated public service.

Kenneth Anderson was a British Army officer who held key command posts before becoming Governor of Gibraltar. Born in 1891, he saw service in both world wars, achieving distinction through leadership roles in Europe and beyond. As Governor of Gibraltar, he oversaw the strategic fortress at the entrance to the Mediterranean and managed civil and military affairs. Anderson focused on fortifying defenses and improving living conditions for the garrison and local community. His tenure strengthened Gibraltar’s role as a vital naval base during the early Cold War period. After returning to Britain, he remained active in veterans’ affairs and military circles. Anderson passed away in 1959, remembered for his dedicated service to crown and country.

Born in 1906 in Quảng Ngãi, Phạm Văn Đồng joined the Indochinese Communist Party in the 1930s. He worked closely with Ho Chi Minh during the struggle for independence from France. As Prime Minister of North Vietnam from 1955 to 1976, he directed domestic policy and wartime governance. Following reunification, he became Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam until 1987. A skilled diplomat, he negotiated key treaties such as the Paris Peace Accords. His lengthy tenure made him the longest-serving head of government in Vietnamese history.

Ivica Račan was a leading Croatian politician and member of the Social Democratic Party. He became the country's 7th Prime Minister in 2000, leading a coalition government during a critical post-war period. Račan implemented economic and judicial reforms aimed at modernizing Croatia and advancing EU integration. His leadership helped stabilize the nation and set the foundation for future growth. Račan remained an influential figure in Croatian politics until his passing in 2007. His tenure is remembered for efforts to promote democracy and international cooperation.

Born in 1942, Shukri Ghanem held various ministerial posts before becoming Prime Minister of Libya in 2003. He played a key role in negotiating oil production agreements and economic reforms under Muammar Gaddafi's regime. After serving as oil minister until 2011, he defected during the Libyan Civil War and lived in exile in Europe. On April 29, 2012, Ghanem was found dead in the Danube River in Vienna under mysterious circumstances. His career reflected the complex politics of Libya's oil-dependent economy and the tumult of the Gaddafi era.

Born in 1924, Pesah Grupper immigrated to Mandatory Palestine and became a member of the Likud party. He was elected to the Knesset in 1981 and served until 1988, holding the position of Minister of Agriculture from 1984. During his tenure, Grupper promoted initiatives to modernize irrigation and support farmers in arid regions. He also served on key parliamentary committees related to education and rural development. Grupper passed away on April 29, 2013, leaving a legacy of dedication to Israel's agricultural advancement.

Born in 1922, Dan Walker began his public service as a U.S. Congressman before being elected Governor of Illinois in 1972. During his term, he championed tax reform and ethics legislation, earning both praise and criticism. After leaving office, Walker faced legal troubles and was convicted of bank fraud in 1987. He received a presidential pardon in 2001, restoring aspects of his reputation. Walker’s career remains a study in political ambition, achievement, and controversy.

Born in 1948, Renato Corona was appointed Chief Justice in 2010 by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo amidst political controversy. He presided over landmark rulings on constitutional law, shaping Philippine jurisprudence. In 2012, Corona became the first Chief Justice in the country’s history to be impeached and removed from office. After his dismissal, he contributed to legal education and commentary until his death in 2016. His tenure remains a pivotal chapter in the nation’s judicial history.