May 17

Born in Wales in 1682, Bartholomew Roberts rose to infamy as one of history's most notorious pirates. He captured over four hundred ships during his career, earning a fearsome reputation across the Atlantic. Roberts was known for his flamboyant attire and for enforcing a strict code of conduct among his crew. Sailing under a distinctive black flag adorned with a skull and crossbones, he launched daring raids in the Caribbean and along the West African coast. His bold tactics and charismatic leadership made him a legendary figure in pirate lore. Roberts met his end in battle off the coast of Africa in 1722, but his exploits have inspired countless tales and legends.

Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner developed patented inventions such as the adjustable sanitary belt and bathroom tissue holder. Despite securing patents in the 1950s, companies refused to produce her designs because of her race. She worked as a senior clerk by day while dedicating her evenings to inventing and improving product designs. Kenner held five patents throughout her lifetime, reflecting her ingenuity and perseverance. Her contributions paved the way for modern menstrual hygiene products and household organizational tools. In later years, she was recognized for her pioneering work and advocacy for women inventors.

Marshall Applewhite (1931–1997) was an American spiritual leader who co-founded the Heaven's Gate group. He blended Christian millenarianism with UFO beliefs to form a unique doctrine that attracted global followers. Applewhite's teachings emphasized ascension to a higher plane of existence through strict communal living. In March 1997, he and 38 followers died by suicide in California, aiming to reach an alleged extraterrestrial spacecraft. The Heaven's Gate tragedy remains a compelling case study in modern cult dynamics.

Marcia Freedman moved to Israel in the early 1970s and quickly became a leading feminist voice in the country. She co-founded the first women's press in Israel and worked to amplify women's perspectives in literature and media. Freedman also helped establish Israel's first lesbian-feminist organization, advocating for LGBTQ+ inclusion and rights. Her activism extended to organizing conferences and lobbying for legal reforms to combat gender discrimination. Freedman remained a vocal advocate for social justice throughout her life. She passed away in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of courageous activism that reshaped Israeli society. Freedman's work paved the way for future generations of women and LGBTQ+ leaders.

Born on May 17, 1950, in Baranovichi, then part of the Soviet Union, Novodvorskaya became a prominent dissident in the 1970s. She founded the Democratic Union, the USSR's first registered opposition party, championing human rights and democratic reforms. Repeatedly arrested and exiled, she continued to write and broadcast critical essays against authoritarian rule. In post-Soviet Russia, she served as a deputy in the State Duma and remained a vocal critic of government oppression. Novodvorskaya inspired many with her sharp wit, unwavering convictions, and fearless commentary. She passed away in 2014, leaving a legacy as one of the most resolute voices for democracy in Russia.

Beginning his career as a political reporter, Jeremy Vine became a familiar voice on BBC Radio 2 with his daily phone-in and topical discussion show. He also hosts Channel 5's program "Jeremy Vine," where he interviews politicians, experts, and celebrities. As an author, he has written books on political and social issues. Known for his engaging presenting style and incisive questioning, Vine has become a staple of British broadcasting.