June 15

Thomas Randolph was born in 1605 and educated at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he began writing poetry. He gained recognition for his comedic play 'Aristippus' (1630) and the pastoral drama 'Amyntas' (1630). Randolph’s work is celebrated for its refined language, classical allusions, and satirical edge. He served as a tutor to the aristocracy and continued to publish lyrical poems throughout his career. Despite dying young in 1635 at the age of 30, his writings influenced later English dramatists. Randolph’s blend of humor and scholarship secured his place among the notable literary figures of the Caroline era.

Kobayashi Issa lost his mother early and entered a Zen monastery as a teenager, later traveling through rural Japan. His haiku are celebrated for their simplicity, compassion, and gentle humor, often featuring common creatures like frogs and snails. Issa wrote more than 20,000 haiku, blending Buddhist insight with an intimate view of peasant life. His personal journals reveal struggles with poverty, family loss, and illness, which deepened the emotional resonance of his poetry. Issa’s work revitalized the haiku form, emphasizing empathy and the dignity of all beings. He died in 1827, remembered as a poet of profound humanity and warmth.

Born into slavery in Maryland, Josiah Henson escaped to Canada in 1830, where he founded the Dawn Settlement to provide education and work for former slaves. He became a prominent minister in the British Methodist Episcopal Church, advocating for abolition and social welfare. Henson’s 1849 autobiography, 'The Life of Josiah Henson,' exposed the brutal realities of slavery and became a bestseller. Harriet Beecher Stowe credited his story as inspiration for the character Uncle Tom in her landmark novel. Henson toured Britain to raise funds for his settlement and the abolitionist cause, earning widespread support. After the Civil War, he returned to the United States to continue his work in education and civil rights. He died in 1883, celebrated for his leadership and enduring impact on the fight against slavery.

Born in Quebec City in 1809, François-Xavier Garneau studied law before turning to literature and historical research. His landmark work, "Histoire du Canada," published in the 1840s, offered the first comprehensive history of French Canada under British rule. Garneau's scholarship combined rigorous research with a passionate defense of his community's heritage. In addition to his historical writings, he published poetry that celebrated Quebec's culture and landscapes. He served in the civil administration and advocated for education. He died in 1866, regarded as a father of French-Canadian historiography.

Born in 1835, Adah Isaacs Menken became one of America's most talked-about performers with her sensational portrayal of "Mazeppa," in which she appeared clothed only in a body-painted costume on horseback. A talented painter and poet, she exhibited artwork in New York salons and published poetry that explored themes of love and independence. Menken was known for her bohemian lifestyle and relationships with leading literary and artistic figures of her era. Her bold persona challenged Victorian norms and left a lasting mark on 19th-century theater. She died in 1868 at the height of her fame.

Born in 1888 in Jerez, Zacatecas, Velarde became a central figure of Mexico's literary modernismo movement. His poetry, characterized by lyrical nationalism, explored themes of identity and cultural heritage. In 1921, he published his masterpiece 'La suave patria,' a collection that captured post-revolutionary sentiments. Velarde also wrote essays and articles contributing to Mexican literary magazines of the time. He influenced future generations of Mexican writers with his innovative use of language and imagery. Velarde died at the age of 33 in 1921, but his work endures as a cornerstone of Mexican poetry.

Wilbert Awdry (1911–1997) was an English author and clergyman best known for creating The Railway Series. Born in Ampfield, England, he developed a lifelong fascination with railways. In 1945, he began writing stories about a cheeky little engine named Thomas to entertain his son during an illness. These tales became The Railway Series books, celebrated for their vivid locomotive characters and detailed railway settings. Awdry's works combined engaging storytelling with educational insights into steam engines and rail operations. His stories were later adapted into the globally popular television series Thomas & Friends. Awdry’s legacy endures in the ongoing popularity of his books, television adaptations, and dedicated fan communities.

Tom Adair (1913–1988) was an American songwriter, composer, and screenwriter noted for his versatile contributions to music and television. He began his career writing songs for big bands and emerged as a prominent lyricist in the swing era. Adair co-wrote hit songs that became popular standards recorded by leading vocalists. He later transitioned to television, crafting scripts and theme songs for series such as Your Hit Parade. His work blended catchy melodies with sharp, engaging lyrics that resonated with audiences across decades. Adair’s talents earned him acclaim in both the music and entertainment industries. His songs continue to be performed and celebrated by musicians worldwide.

Born in Sighet, Romania in 1924, Hédi Fried survived the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. After relocating to Sweden in 1945, she earned a doctorate in psychology and built a career as a clinician and researcher. Fried authored several memoirs, including "The Road to Auschwitz", sharing her experiences with younger generations. Her work focused on trauma, memory, and the resilience of the human spirit. As a vocal advocate for Holocaust education, she lectured at schools and universities across Europe. She received numerous awards for her literary contributions and her commitment to tolerance and human rights.

Born in 1925, Richard Baker began his career in British newspapers in the late 1940s. He covered major international events and became known for his clear and engaging writing style. Baker authored several non-fiction books exploring political and social issues of post-war Europe. His work earned him respect among peers and a loyal readership for its depth and integrity. He continued writing well into his later years, mentoring young journalists and shaping public discourse.

Born in Bursa in 1925, Attilâ İlhan emerged as a leading voice in Turkish literature. His poetry and novels blended romantic imagery with sharp critiques of political and social issues. İlhan published essays and film scripts, influencing Turkish cinema and journalism. His works, such as the novel "Allah’ın Askerleri", resonated with readers for their emotional depth. He taught philosophy and mentored emerging writers, leaving a lasting impact on literary circles. His legacy endures in modern Turkish letters through numerous awards and tributes.

Born Sher Muhammad Khan in 1927 in British India, Ibn-e-Insha became a prominent Urdu poet. His witty and satirical ghazals and nazms critiqued social and political norms with humor and grace. Insha’s travelogues, such as "Awara Gard Ki Diary", introduced readers to his observant and playful prose. He worked as a broadcaster and translator, bringing international literature to Urdu audiences. His unique blend of poetry and prose earned him lasting fame in South Asian literary circles. He continued writing until his death in 1978, leaving behind a rich and varied oeuvre.