May 28

Born around 496, Germain served as Bishop of Paris during a time of political fragmentation following the fall of Roman authority in Gaul. He was celebrated for his charity, founding churches and hospices to care for the poor and sick and for mediating disputes among Frankish rulers. His humility led him to live simply while championing reforms to clerical discipline and liturgical practice. Miracles attributed to him after his death in 576 enhanced his reputation and established a cult in his honor. His legacy endures in the Cathedral of Saint Germain-des-Prés and in his feast day on May 28th.

Ucha'an K'in B'alam is recorded in Maya inscriptions dating to the 8th century, though the exact city-state he ruled remains uncertain. The few surviving glyphs bearing his name suggest he participated in ceremonial rituals typical of Maya royalty. Details of his political alliances, military campaigns, and domestic policies have not survived. Historians piece together his legacy through scattered stelae and codices, highlighting the challenges of reconstructing Maya chronology. His death on May 28, 741, anchors him in the complex calendar system that defined Classic Maya history.

Born to a modest family, Kong Qian rose through the bureaucracy of the Later Liang and Later Tang to become chief financial officer. Under Emperor Zhuangzong, he centralized revenue collection and implemented strict taxation policies. His administration of state finances strengthened the imperial treasury but drew criticism for heavy levies on peasants. In 926, following a military mutiny and the emperor's death, Kong Qian was executed by rebel forces. His tenure exemplifies both the power and risks of fiscal authority in a period of dynastic turmoil.

As the eldest son of Emperor Zhuangzong of Later Tang, Li Jiji held the title Prince of Wei and was entrusted with a major expedition against the rebellious governor Meng Zhixiang in Sichuan. Despite initial successes, news of his father's assassination caused confusion among his troops. Isolated and leaderless, he chose suicide over capture after learning of the emperor's fall. His death on May 28, 926, reflects the volatility of the Five Dynasties period. Historians view his career as emblematic of princely privilege and the perils of military command during dynastic decline.

Born in the late 10th century, Wulfstan rose through the ranks of the church to become Bishop of Worcester and later Archbishop of York. He authored influential homilies and legal codes that helped harmonize English and Danish traditions under King Cnut. His writings combined biblical exegesis with social commentary, warning against moral decline and injustice. Wulfstan's contributions to ecclesiastical reforms and royal legislation left a lasting mark on English church-state relations. He died on May 28, 1023, and was later revered as a saint for his piety and scholarship.

Appointed Bishop of St Andrews in 1271, William Wishart guided the Scottish church during the reign of King Alexander III. He navigated tensions between the crown and the papacy, defending ecclesiastical rights while supporting royal initiatives. Wishart oversaw the construction and endowment of religious institutions, strengthening monastic communities across Scotland. His leadership coincided with relative political stability, allowing for reforms in clerical education and discipline. He died on May 28, 1279, leaving a legacy of church reform and pastoral care.

Ordained as a cleric, Robert Baldock rose to prominence as Lord Privy Seal in 1320 before his appointment as Lord Chancellor in 1323. As a close advisor to King Edward II, he played a central role in royal administration and legal affairs. Baldock was unpopular with barons due to his perceived favoritism and heavy-handed governance. During the baronial rebellion led by Thomas, Earl of Lancaster, Baldock was captured and imprisoned. He died in captivity on May 28, 1327, his fall illustrating the turbulent politics of Edward II's reign.

Born in 1291, Afonso IV ascended to the Portuguese throne following the death of his father, King Denis. Nicknamed 'the Brave', he led successful campaigns against the Kingdom of Castile and secured Portugal's borders. The king also played a pivotal role in reforming the administration of justice, establishing ordinances that improved fairness in courts. His reign experienced personal tragedy, including conflict with his son over a scandalous affair that strained dynastic relations. Afonso IV died on May 28, 1357, leaving a strengthened monarchy and a legacy of chivalry in Iberian politics.

Born in 1397, Henry IV inherited the County of Holstein-Rendsburg during a period of shifting alliances among German principalities and the Hanseatic League. He negotiated trade agreements with Baltic ports to bolster his territory's economic strength. Henry maintained cautious relations with neighboring duchies, balancing diplomacy and military readiness. His rule saw internal reforms aimed at streamlining administration and justice. He died on May 28, 1427, and his policies influenced the stability of Holstein during the late medieval period.

Originally a merchant known as Nishimura Kankurō, Saitō Dōsan rose to power by orchestrating the overthrow of the Toki clan to become lord of Mino Province in central Japan. His strategic acumen and ruthlessness in consolidating control earned him the nickname Viper of Mino. Dōsan fostered economic growth in his domain, promoting trade in oil and silk. He arranged his daughter's marriage to the rising warlord Oda Nobunaga, reflecting his diplomatic skill. In 1556, his conflict with his son Saitō Yoshitatsu led to a fatal battle, and Dōsan died on May 28, 1556. His life epitomizes the volatility of the Sengoku period.

Thomas Howard, 1st Earl of Suffolk (1561–1626), was an English nobleman and politician who held the office of Lord High Treasurer during the reign of James I. A member of the powerful Howard family, he served in various diplomatic and court positions, including Lord Chamberlain. Known for his influence at court, he managed royal finances and was a key figure in early 17th-century politics. However, his career ended controversially when he was impeached for corruption and mismanagement of funds. He was fined and briefly imprisoned before his death in 1626. His life reflects the opportunities and pitfalls of Tudor-Stuart court politics.

Henry Grey, 10th Earl of Kent (1594–1651), was an English nobleman and politician who succeeded to his title in 1639. He sat in the House of Lords and served as a privy councillor under King Charles I. A loyal royalist, he participated in political affairs during the tumultuous years leading to the English Civil War. Although his estates were impacted by the conflict, he avoided severe penalties and maintained his family’s standing. He also served in local governance in Kent and was known for his moderate approach. Grey died without male heirs in 1651, ending this line of succession.