July 06

Born in 1735, Sharp became one of Britain's first campaigners for the rights of enslaved Africans. He won a landmark legal case 'Somerset v Stewart' in 1772, effectively undermining slavery on English soil. Sharp co-founded the Society for Effecting the Abolition of the Slave Trade in 1787 alongside other leading reformers. His writings and advocacy laid the intellectual groundwork for the eventual British abolition of the trade in 1807. A devout Christian, he saw slavery as a moral sin and devoted his life to justice and social reform. Sharp's pioneering efforts are recognized as foundational to modern human rights movements.

Born in 1871, Wilhelm von Mirbach joined the German foreign service and rose to prominence as a seasoned diplomat. In 1918, he was appointed ambassador to Soviet Russia during a period of intense upheaval. Von Mirbach sought to negotiate peace and protect German interests but faced hostility from radical factions. On July 6, 1918, he was assassinated in Moscow by members of the Left Socialist-Revolutionaries. His death marked a turning point in German-Soviet relations and underscored the volatility of revolutionary Russia. Von Mirbach's career exemplifies the challenges faced by diplomats in times of war and revolution.

Born in 1866, Cornelia Sorabji studied law at Somerville College, Oxford, becoming the first woman from India to qualify as a barrister. She devoted her career to advocating for the rights of purdahnashins, offering legal representation to underprivileged women. Sorabji authored several books and memoirs to highlight social injustices and pave the way for future generations. Her pioneering work opened doors for women in the Indian legal profession. She remained an influential figure in social reform until her death in 1954.

Born in 1872 into the illustrious House of Habsburg, Joseph August served as an officer in the Austro-Hungarian Army before the empire's collapse in 1918. After the monarchy's dissolution, he resided in exile, dedicating himself to family and cultural duties. He maintained the traditions of the Habsburg court and represented the dynasty at social and charitable events across Europe. Although stripped of political power, he remained a respected figure among monarchist circles. He passed away in 1962, symbolizing the end of an era for Central European royalty.

Born in 1899, George became Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz after the First World War ended the German monarchy in 1918. Although his title was largely ceremonial, he managed the family's estates and cultural foundations, preserving regional history and traditions. During the upheavals of the 20th century, he supported local communities and engaged in charitable work. He authored memoirs reflecting on the transition from imperial to modern Germany. George passed away in 1963, remembered for his dedication to his family's heritage and the region he served.

Babe Paley (1915–1978), born Barbara Cushing, was an American socialite and member of New York high society celebrated for her impeccable style and sophisticated entertaining. Married to media magnate William S. Paley, she hosted glamorous parties that attracted the cultural and political elite. Her wardrobe, featuring couture designs, set fashion trends and was chronicled in top magazines. Together with her sisters, known as the Cushing sisters, she epitomized postwar American glamour. Despite personal challenges, including marital strife and the loss of her daughter, Paley's influence on fashion and society endures as a symbol of timeless elegance.

Marsha P. Johnson was a pioneering American drag performer and outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. She played a prominent role in the 1969 Stonewall uprising in New York City. Johnson co-founded the activist group STAR (Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries) to support homeless queer youth. Known for her vibrant personality and flamboyant style, she organized community events and protests. She collaborated with Sylvia Rivera to champion transgender rights and visibility. Johnson's activism and performances helped lay the groundwork for modern Pride celebrations. She remains an enduring icon in the fight for equality and justice.

Born in 1930 in Queens, New York, John Frankenheimer started his career directing live television dramas in the 1950s. He gained acclaim for his tense political thrillers, notably The Manchurian Candidate (1962), which remains a touchstone of Cold War cinema. Frankenheimer’s innovative camera techniques and dynamic storytelling marked films like Seven Days in May and The Train. He also wrote and produced numerous films and television projects throughout a career spanning five decades. His work earned multiple awards and nominations, showcasing his skill at blending suspense with social commentary. Frankenheimer left an enduring influence on filmmakers and helped redefine the modern political thriller.

Born in 1930 in Istanbul, Çelik Gülersoy earned a law degree before dedicating his life to preserving Turkey's cultural heritage. He pioneered efforts to restore and protect Ottoman-era architecture, founding the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts. Gülersoy authored numerous books and articles on the history and urban development of Istanbul, blending scholarly research with poetic insight. His leadership in revitalizing historic neighborhoods earned him international recognition and awards. A gifted poet and writer, he used his talent to raise public awareness about the importance of conservation. Gülersoy's work left a lasting impact on Istanbul's landscape and inspired future generations of preservationists.

Mary Kay Letourneau was born in 1962 in Seattle and became a sixth-grade teacher in the local school district. In the mid-1990s, she engaged in a sexual relationship with her 12-year-old student, leading to her conviction for statutory rape. Letourneau served over seven years in prison and was required to register as a sex offender. Her case garnered intense media attention and sparked debates over consent and rehabilitation. After her release, she married the victim, Vili Fualaau, in a union that lasted several years before they separated. Letourneau wrote a memoir and appeared in reality television, attempting to rebuild her life. She died in 2020, leaving behind a controversial legacy that continues to provoke discussion.