May 11

Born in 866, Leo VI ascended the Byzantine throne in 886 and reigned until his death in 912. Known as "the Wise," he was a patron of learning and compiled the legal collection known as the Basilika. His reign saw a cultural renaissance with advances in theology, literature, and law. He reinforced the eastern borders against Arab incursions and cultivated diplomatic relations with neighboring states. A prolific writer, Leo authored theological treatises and poetry, earning him a lasting reputation as one of Byzantium's most learned emperors.

Born in 1708, William Pitt rose to prominence as a powerful orator in the House of Commons. As Secretary of State, he directed British military strategy during the Seven Years' War, expanding the empire's influence in North America and India. In 1766, he became Prime Minister, advocating victory abroad and civil liberties at home. Known as the 'Great Commoner,' he championed the rights of the American colonies and stood against corruption in government. Although his health declined, his leadership and vision laid the groundwork for Britain's 19th-century global dominance. Pitt died in 1778, revered as one of Britain's most influential political figures.

Born in 1711, John Hart became a respected lawyer and public servant in colonial New Jersey. Elected to the Continental Congress in 1776, he lent his signature to the Declaration of Independence on behalf of his state. Throughout the Revolutionary War, he served in New Jersey's legislature and as a county judge, supporting the Patriot cause. Despite health challenges and personal hardship, Hart remained steadfast in his commitment to American independence. He died in 1779, remembered among the nation's Founding Fathers for his unwavering dedication.

Born in 1762, Spencer Perceval pursued a distinguished legal career before entering Parliament. A prominent Tory, he served as Chancellor of the Exchequer and Leader of the House of Commons. In 1809, he became Prime Minister, guiding Britain through the Napoleonic Wars and domestic economic challenges. Perceval advocated strict fiscal policy and opposed Catholic emancipation, earning both support and controversy. On May 11, 1812, he was tragically shot in the lobby of the House of Commons, becoming the only British prime minister to be assassinated. His death sent shockwaves through the nation and marked a dramatic moment in British political history.

Born in Inverness in 1816, Frederick Innes emigrated to Van Diemen's Land (now Tasmania) in 1837. He began his career as a journalist and lawyer before entering colonial politics. Elected to the Tasmanian House of Assembly in 1857, Innes held key cabinet positions including Attorney-General and Treasurer. From 1872 to 1873, he served as the 9th Premier, championing land reform, infrastructure development, and public education. His administration laid the groundwork for modern governance in Tasmania. After retiring, he remained active in community affairs until his death in 1882.

Born in Exeter in 1850, Charles Kingston emigrated to Adelaide in 1868 and trained as a solicitor. Elected to the South Australian House of Assembly in 1887, he became Attorney-General and led progressive legislation on workers' compensation and public education. In 1893, Kingston became Premier, enacting land reform and extending the franchise to women. He was a key delegate to the 1897 Constitutional Convention, helping shape the Australian Federation. After moving to federal politics, he served as a minister in the first Commonwealth government. Kingston died in 1908, remembered for his vision of a fair and democratic society.

George Elmslie was an Australian Labor politician. He became the 25th Premier of Victoria for a brief term in December 1913. He was the first Labor Premier of Victoria, though his government lasted only 13 days. Elmslie advocated for workers' rights and social reforms during his political career. He served in the Victorian Legislative Assembly for over two decades. His pioneering role helped pave the way for Labor governments in Australian states.

Seán McCaughey was an Irish Republican Army volunteer and political activist. He participated in the struggle for Irish independence and opposed British governance. In 1946, McCaughey was imprisoned and joined a hunger strike to protest prison conditions. He died after a prolonged strike, becoming a martyr for the Republican cause. His death highlighted ongoing tensions in post-independence Ireland. McCaughey's sacrifice is remembered in commemorations of Republican activism. He remains a symbol of resistance and dedication to national identity.

Born in 1912 in Farnham, Quebec, Lapointe launched her journalism career covering social and political issues. She became one of Quebec's first female press editors, breaking barriers in a male-dominated field. In 1979, she was appointed to the Senate of Canada in recognition of her contributions to journalism. During her tenure, she advocated for media freedom and women's rights. Lapointe retired in the late 1980s and passed away in 2002, remembered as a trailblazer in Canadian media and politics.

Born in 1908 in Sainte-Luce, Quebec, Cadieux worked as a journalist and editor before entering politics. Elected as a Liberal MP in 1963, he was appointed Minister of National Defence in 1967. During the Cold War, he focused on modernizing Canada's armed forces and shaping defense policies. He retired from cabinet in 1969 and left politics in 1972. Cadieux passed away in 2005, remembered for his leadership during a pivotal era in Canadian defense history.

Born in 1913 into the Malietoa royal family in Samoa. He became co-head of state at Samoan independence in 1962 and sole head of state after Malietoa Tanumafili I's death. During his 45-year reign, he guided Samoa through rapid modernization while preserving its cultural traditions. He played a key role in international diplomacy, representing Samoa at the United Nations and Commonwealth meetings. His longevity in office made him a respected figure both domestically and internationally.