May 02

Born in Stavanger in 1773, Henrik Steffens studied geology and natural philosophy before embracing German Romantic thought. His lectures in Copenhagen and Berlin popularized ideas of organic unity and the sublime across Scandinavia. Steffens wrote romantic poetry and philosophical works blending scientific insight with artistic expression. As a professor at the University of Breslau, he influenced students in both scientific and literary fields. His interdisciplinary approach shaped intellectual life in Norway and Germany. Steffens died in 1845, leaving a legacy as a pioneer of Romantic philosophy in Northern Europe.

Theodor Herzl was a Jewish Austro-Hungarian journalist and playwright who became the chief architect of political Zionism. After witnessing anti-Semitism in Europe, he published 'Der Judenstaat' in 1896, advocating for the establishment of a Jewish homeland. Herzl convened the First Zionist Congress in Basel in 1897, uniting Jewish leaders in support of his vision. He tirelessly lobbied European powers to secure diplomatic backing for a Jewish state in Palestine. Herzl's writings and speeches transformed Zionism into an organized political movement. Despite his early death at age 44, his ideas galvanized Jewish communities worldwide and laid the groundwork for the eventual founding of Israel in 1948. Herzl remains a central figure in Jewish history and national identity.

Ki Hajar Dewantara, born Raden Mas Soewardi Soerjaningrat, was a champion of Indonesian education under Dutch colonial rule. He established the Taman Siswa school system in 1922, promoting indigenous learning and national consciousness. Dewantara's educational philosophy emphasized creativity, patriotism, and cultural pride, summarized in his motto "Tut Wuri Handayani." He served as Indonesia's first Minister of Education and Culture after independence. Honored as a national hero, his legacy continues to influence education reform in Indonesia and beyond.