June 08

Born in 1330 as the eldest son of King Edward III, Edward of Woodstock earned the epithet 'the Black Prince' either from the color of his armor or his reputation on the battlefield. He led English forces to victory at the Battles of Crécy in 1346 and Poitiers in 1356, capturing the French King John II. His leadership and tactical skill were instrumental in advancing English interests in France. Beyond his military prowess, he was known for his chivalric values, generosity to his troops, and patronage of the arts. Despite suffering from illness in his later years, he continued to fulfill his duties as Prince of Wales. Edward died in 1376, predeceasing his father, and was interred at Canterbury Cathedral. His exploits epitomize the martial and cultural ideals of medieval knighthood.

Born into humble circumstances on the frontier of the Carolinas in 1767, Andrew Jackson rose to prominence as a military leader after his decisive victory in the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812. As the founder of the modern Democratic Party, he championed the cause of the 'common man' and reshaped the American presidency by asserting executive power. His two terms from 1829 to 1837 saw significant political battles, including his controversial veto of the recharter of the Second Bank of the United States. Jackson's implementation of the Indian Removal Act led to the tragic Trail of Tears, marking a contentious legacy. He died in 1845, leaving a lasting impact on the political landscape of the young Republic.

Cochise, born around 1805, was a revered chief of the Chiricahua Apache who fiercely defended his people's homeland against encroaching settlers and the United States Army. After a series of conflicts in the early 1860s, he negotiated a peace that established a reservation in present-day Arizona. His leadership and tactical skill earned him respect among both his followers and his adversaries. Cochise's legacy lives on as a symbol of Native American resistance and sovereignty. He died in 1874, and his name remains synonymous with courage and determination.

Born in Rimouski, Quebec in 1874.\nStudied medicine and joined the Canadian Army Medical Corps.\nServed as Director General of Medical Services during World War I.\nElected as Liberal Member of Parliament for Rimouski and appointed Minister of National Defence.\nServed as the 18th Lieutenant Governor of Quebec from 1939 to 1950.\nRemembered for his lasting contributions to military medicine and public service in Quebec.

Juan Carlos Onganía rose through the military ranks to become Commander-in-Chief of the Argentine Army. He seized power in a bloodless coup in 1966, ending democratic rule and establishing the Argentine Revolution. Onganía's government suspended political parties, censored the press and promoted economic modernization. He pursued conservative social policies, banning university autonomy and suppressing dissent. Facing mounting protests and economic challenges, he was ousted in a 1970 military coup. His tenure remains controversial for its authoritarian approach and impact on Argentina's political landscape.

Sani Abacha joined the Nigerian Army in 1963 and rose rapidly through the ranks. He orchestrated a coup in 1993, installing himself as de facto head of state. Abacha's regime was marked by human rights abuses, censorship and suppression of political opposition. Under his rule, oil revenues swelled, but billions were allegedly diverted into his personal accounts. International sanctions isolated Nigeria, yet he maintained strict control over the military and bureaucracy. His sudden death in 1998 sparked a transition towards civilian rule and ongoing investigations into his legacy.