May 23

Lorenzo Sawyer was born in 1820 in New Hampshire and moved to California during the Gold Rush. He established a legal practice in San Francisco and gained a reputation for integrity and fairness. In 1864 President Abraham Lincoln appointed him to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. Sawyer later served on the United States Circuit Courts for the Ninth Circuit and the District Courts of Oregon. He presided over significant cases involving land rights, maritime law, and railroad disputes. Sawyer authored influential opinions that helped shape federal jurisprudence in the Pacific region. He retired in 1891 and died later that year, remembered as a pioneering judicial figure in the American West.

Nikolai Vekšin (1887-1951) was an Estonian-Russian sailor and ship captain who navigated vessels in the Baltic Sea during a period of significant political change. His maritime career spanned the final years of the Russian Empire and the early Estonian Republic. Vekšin was known for his expertise in navigation and seamanship, commanding both merchant and passenger ships. He contributed to the maintenance of vital trade routes across Northern Europe. Although detailed records of his voyages are limited, he is remembered in maritime circles for his leadership and skill at sea.

Born in London in 1892 to the Spencer aristocratic family. He succeeded his father as the 7th Earl Spencer in 1910 and took his seat in the House of Lords. Earl Spencer served in the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers during World War I, earning the rank of captain. After the war, he held local offices, including Lord Lieutenant of Northamptonshire. He was the paternal grandfather of Diana, Princess of Wales. He died in 1975, and his title passed to his son, John Spencer, 8th Earl Spencer.

Born in Montrose, Georgia, in 1899, Jeralean Talley lived through three centuries. She worked as a seamstress and later as a church deacon in Detroit, Michigan. On her 114th birthday in 2013, she became the oldest living American recognized by Guinness. In March 2015, she succeeded Misao Okawa as the world's oldest living person. Talley attributed her longevity to a simple diet, faith, and a positive outlook on life. She passed away in June 2015 at the age of 116, leaving behind a legacy of resilience.

Tomiko Itooka was a Japanese supercentenarian admired for her remarkable longevity and vitality. Born in 1908, she witnessed over a century of Japan's history, from the Taisho era through the Reiwa era. Itooka credited her long life to a simple diet, daily walks, and a positive outlook. She became a beloved figure in her community, often featured in local news on her birthdays and known for her sharp mind. Itooka passed away in 2024 at the age of 116, leaving behind a story of resilience and grace that spanned three centuries of change.

Born on May 23, 1950 in Sacramento, California, Richard Chase terrorized the community in 1977 with a series of brutal murders fueled by delusions and substance abuse. Dubbed the Vampire of Sacramento for his gruesome acts and obsession with blood, his crimes revealed profound mental health issues. After his arrest, Chase was found guilty and sentenced to death, but he died by suicide in his jail cell in 1980. His case raised important questions about the intersection of mental illness and the criminal justice system in the United States.

Born on May 23, 1952 in Epsom, England, Martin Parr gained acclaim for his vivid color photography that captures the quirks of British culture and consumerism. His satirical style, blending humor with critical observation, has been exhibited in major galleries worldwide. A long-term member of Magnum Photos, Parr has published acclaimed photobooks such as 'The Last Resort' and 'Small World.' He has also curated international photography festivals, championing diverse perspectives in visual storytelling. Parr’s work continues to influence generations of photographers and provoke conversations about contemporary society.

Born in 1961, Norrie May-Welby became a prominent figure in discussions on gender identity after seeking legal recognition. In 2010, Norrie was declared legally gender 'non-specific' by an Australian court, a landmark decision for transgender and non-binary rights. They have since advocated for LGBTQ+ inclusion, speaking at forums and engaging with policy makers. As a writer and public speaker, Norrie shares personal experiences to raise awareness and challenge societal norms. Their work has influenced legal reforms and increased visibility for non-binary individuals in Australia and beyond.

Ryan Coogler was born in Oakland, California, and graduated from the USC School of Cinematic Arts. His feature-film debut, Fruitvale Station (2013), won the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival. Coogler directed Creed (2015), revitalizing the Rocky franchise and earning critical acclaim. He co-wrote and directed Black Panther (2018), which grossed over $1.3 billion and became a cultural phenomenon. Known for his authentic storytelling and focus on social themes, he received Academy Award nominations for Best Original Screenplay. Coogler continues to develop projects that highlight underrepresented voices and challenge genre conventions. He is recognized as one of Hollywood’s most influential young directors.

Born in Sydney in 1987, Gracie Otto began her career in front of the camera as an actress in popular Australian television series. She later moved behind the scenes, writing and directing acclaimed short films that have screened at international film festivals. Otto has produced independent features and built a reputation for her cinematic storytelling and creative vision. She often explores themes of identity and relationships in her work. Otto continues to balance acting with her passion for directing and producing new film projects.

Rising to fame on YouTube, James Charles became the first male ambassador for a major cosmetics brand at age 17. He is celebrated for his creativity in makeup artistry and bold, innovative looks. His channel features tutorials, challenges, and collaborations with celebrities. With millions of followers across platforms, he has influenced modern beauty culture. He has launched his own makeup line and continues to expand his brand.