May 30

Mikhail Bakunin (1814-1876) was a Russian philosopher, political theorist, and revolutionary anarchist. Initially influenced by Hegelian philosophy, he broke with Marxism over disagreements on authoritarianism and centralization. Bakunin played a key role in the 1848 revolutions across Europe, leading radical movements in Germany, France, and Italy. He advocated for the abolition of the state and collective ownership of the means of production, laying groundwork for anarcho-collectivism. His writings, including 'Statism and Anarchy', influenced generations of anarchists and libertarian socialists. Despite frequent imprisonment and exile, Bakunin remained a passionate advocate for popular uprisings until his death in Switzerland.

Born on 30 May 1862 in Shamakhi, Sabir studied religious sciences and later moved to Baku. He began writing poetry that critiqued inequality, superstition, and corruption in society. His satirical verses were published in the magazine Molla Nasreddin and reached a wide audience. Sabir's work combined humor with sharp social commentary, earning him the title 'Master of Satire'. Despite his short life, he published numerous poems that inspired future generations of Azerbaijani writers. He died in 1911 and is commemorated as a key figure in Azerbaijani cultural history.

Giovanni Gentile was born on 30 May 1875 in Castelvetrano, Sicily. He became a leading proponent of actual idealism, a philosophical doctrine emphasizing the active role of the mind in shaping reality. Gentile served as Italy's Minister of Public Education under Mussolini, where he reformed the school system. He authored numerous works on philosophy, ethics, and political theory, including 'The Philosophy of Spirit'. As an intellectual architect of Italian Fascism, he blended state authority with cultural nationalism. His alliance with Mussolini made him a controversial figure, and he was assassinated by anti-fascist partisans in 1944. Gentile's philosophical legacy remains influential and debated in academic circles.

Born in 1886, Bourne emerged as a leading progressive intellectual in the early 20th century United States. He contributed essays and critiques to publications such as The Nation and Atlantic Monthly, advocating for cultural pluralism and educational reform. A vocal opponent of American involvement in World War I, he challenged nationalistic excesses and warned against the expansion of state power. His ideas influenced later debates on individual liberty and social policy. Bourne's promising career was cut short when he died of influenza during the 1918 pandemic at the age of 32.