June 02

Born Martha Dandridge in 1731, she married George Washington and became the first First Lady when he assumed the presidency in 1789. She set precedents for the role, hosting official events at the new national capital and championing charitable activities. During the Revolutionary War, she managed the Washington household and provided care for soldiers at Valley Forge. Her dignified presence and social leadership helped shape the early American republic's public image. She retired to Mount Vernon after her husband's death and passed away in 1802, remembered as a pioneering figure in American history.

Born Giuseppe Balsamo in 1743, Cagliostro adopted his noble title and portrayed himself as a master of alchemy, healing, and mystical arts. He journeyed across European courts, offering his services as a healer and diviner while cultivating a reputation for enigmatic charisma. His connection to the Affair of the Diamond Necklace scandal in France (1785) tarnished his standing amid accusations of fraud. Later arrested by the Roman Inquisition in 1789, he died in imprisonment in 1795. His life has since inspired countless legends, novels, and investigations into occult practices of the 18th century.

Born in 1838 as Princess Alexandra of Oldenburg, she married Grand Duke Konstantin Nikolayevich of Russia and became Duchess Alexandra Petrovna. She was active in the imperial court, supporting various charitable initiatives aimed at aiding soldiers’ families and local communities. Her commitment to philanthropy and social welfare earned her respect among contemporaries. After her separation, she devoted herself to religious and charitable pursuits, founding hospitals and schools. Alexandra Petrovna passed away in 1900, remembered for her dedication to humanitarian causes within the Russian Empire.

Adelaide Casely-Hayford was a pioneering Sierra Leonean advocate for cultural nationalism and women's education. Born into a Creole family, she worked to promote African identity and self-reliance through the arts and education. In 1923, she founded a girls' vocational training school in Freetown to empower young women with skills in domestic science and African crafts. Casely-Hayford also wrote essays and short stories that highlighted the importance of African culture and history. Her activism extended to international platforms, where she connected with Pan-African leaders. Her legacy lives on through her contributions to education, literature, and the early Pan-African movement.

Born Boris Grünberg, Alexandru Nicolschi was a Soviet-trained NKVD agent who became a key figure in Romania’s Securitate. He played a central role in political repression, overseeing interrogations and purges of perceived opponents. Nicolschi was implicated in numerous human rights abuses and helped consolidate the Communist Party’s power. His actions contributed to the establishment of a pervasive state security apparatus. After falling from favor, he faded into obscurity before his death in 1992.

Betty Freeman was a renowned American photographer and philanthropist who championed 20th-century composers and visual artists. She commissioned works from innovators like John Cage, Philip Glass, and Steve Reich, helping to shape the landscape of contemporary music. Freeman’s photography documented leading figures in the arts, and her portraits appeared in major exhibitions and publications. Through generous grants and commissions, she provided crucial support for emerging talent, leaving a lasting legacy in both music and photography.

Sir Sigmund Sternberg was a Hungarian-born British businessman who built a successful career in property development before dedicating himself to philanthropy. He was a leading figure in fostering Jewish-Christian interfaith dialogue and funded cultural and educational initiatives through the Sternberg Centre. Sternberg received honors from both the British Crown and the Vatican for his work in promoting understanding between faiths. His philanthropic efforts extended to Holocaust remembrance, human rights advocacy, and support for Jewish heritage institutions worldwide.

June Callwood was a passionate Canadian writer and social activist whose career spanned journalism, literature, and human rights advocacy. She co-founded the first shelter for battered women in Canada and established programs for the homeless, single parents, and people living with HIV/AIDS. As an author, Callwood wrote biographies and social commentaries that amplified the voices of marginalized communities. She received numerous honors for her humanitarian work, including the Order of Canada, and remained a tireless advocate for social justice throughout her life.

George William Penrose, Lord Penrose (born June 2, 1938) is a Scottish lawyer and judge who served as a Senator of the College of Justice. Appointed to Scotland's Supreme Courts in 1985, he presided over significant civil and criminal cases. In 1991, he chaired the Penrose Inquiry into the contamination of blood products with HIV and hepatitis C, leading to vital reforms in transfusion policy. His legal career is marked by dedication to public service and judicial independence. Lord Penrose continues to be recognized for his impact on Scotland's legal system.

Peter Sutcliffe (1946–2020), known as the 'Yorkshire Ripper', was an English serial killer convicted of murdering 13 women and attempting to murder seven others between 1975 and 1980. His crimes caused widespread fear across northern England and led to one of the largest manhunts in British history. Sutcliffe was apprehended in 1981, claimed to have attacked women to expel 'evil', and was sentenced to life imprisonment. His case sparked debates on police procedures and violence against women. Sutcliffe died in prison, leaving a lasting impact on criminal profiling and forensic investigation.

Frank Rich (born June 2, 1949) rose to prominence as the chief theater critic for The New York Times, shaping public opinion with his sharp reviews. In 1980 he became an op-ed columnist, where his political and cultural commentary reached a national audience for over two decades. Rich moved to New York magazine in 2003, writing in-depth essays on American politics and society. He is the author of several books, including 'The Greatest Story Ever Sold' and 'Losing the Center'. Known for his incisive analysis and wit, Rich has influenced debates on policy, culture, and the media. His career spans journalism, criticism, and authorship, making him a leading voice in American letters.

Alexander Wylie, Lord Kinclaven (born June 2, 1951) is a Scottish jurist and former advocate. He was appointed Senator of the College of Justice in 2014, sitting in Scotland's Supreme Courts. Prior to his elevation, Wylie practiced at the Faculty of Advocates and lectured in law. He has been involved in significant civil and commercial cases throughout his career. Wylie is known for his expertise in procedural law and commitment to legal education. As Lord Kinclaven, he continues to influence Scottish jurisprudence.