July 10

Mary McLeod Bethune (1875–1955) was a pioneering African American educator, stateswoman, and activist. She founded the Daytona Educational and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls, which later became Bethune-Cookman University. Bethune served as an advisor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, advocating for racial equality and women’s rights. She was the first Black woman to head a federal agency, the National Youth Administration. Her leadership in the National Association of Colored Women and the NAACP helped pave the way for the civil rights movement.

Ima Hogg (1882–1975) was a prominent society leader and philanthropist in Texas. She championed mental health initiatives and supported the restoration of historic buildings. An avid art collector, Hogg donated many works to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. She helped establish the Houston Symphony and the Bayou Bend Collection. Her legacy includes the preservation of American folk art and promotion of public access to the arts.

Born Jack Diamond in Philadelphia, he rose to prominence during Prohibition as a bootlegger in New York. Nicknamed "Legs" for his ability to evade law enforcement, he survived several assassination attempts. Diamond's criminal enterprises included extortion, illegal gambling, and alcohol smuggling. He became a target of rival gangs and the police due to his high-profile lifestyle. His violent death in a Pittsburgh rooming house remains shrouded in mystery. Legs Diamond's exploits inspired books and films depicting the Roaring Twenties underworld.

Judith Jasmin, born in 1916 in Montreal, began her journalism career at La Presse before moving into radio and television. In the 1950s, she became one of the first female news anchors in Quebec, breaking gender barriers in the industry. Jasmin covered major international events, including the Cuban Revolution and United Nations assemblies, and was known for her insightful reporting and fearless interviewing style. She also produced documentaries that shed light on social issues in Canada. Beyond journalism, Jasmin lectured at universities and mentored emerging reporters. Her contributions helped pave the way for women in broadcast media. She died in 1972, remembered as a trailblazer in Canadian journalism.

Eunice Kennedy Shriver was born in 1921 into the prominent Kennedy family in Massachusetts. Deeply moved by her sister Rosemary's intellectual disability, she championed programs for people with special needs. In 1962, she founded Camp Shriver, which led to the creation of the Special Olympics in 1968, offering athletic competitions worldwide. Under her leadership, the organization grew to include millions of athletes in over 170 countries. She received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1984 and continued advocating for disability rights until her death in 2009.

Don Bolles was an American investigative reporter acclaimed for his fearless reporting on organized crime. He worked for The Arizona Republic, where his in-depth investigations exposed corruption in Phoenix's underworld and political circles. On June 2, 1976, Bolles was critically injured by a car bomb intended to silence him; he succumbed to his wounds 11 days later. His tragic death galvanized the journalism community and led to the founding of Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE). Bolles' legacy lives on in the protections and ethical standards that continue to shape investigative journalism today.

Tunne Kelam is a prominent Estonian figure who played a key role in his country's move toward independence from the Soviet Union. Beginning his career as a journalist, Kelam documented and reported on social and political issues under Soviet rule. In the late 1980s, he co-founded the Estonian Heritage Society and later the Estonian National Independence Party, mobilizing citizens in the non-violent Singing Revolution. Elected to the Supreme Council, Kelam voted in favor of the restoration of Estonia's independence in 1991. He continued his political work as a member of the Riigikogu and served as a Member of the European Parliament, focusing on defense and security policy. Known for his dedication to democracy and human rights, he has received numerous honors, including the Order of the National Coat of Arms. Kelam's career bridges journalism, activism, and politics, making him a respected voice in Baltic and European affairs.

Edwards Barham was an American farmer turned politician who represented Morehouse and Ouachita parishes in the Louisiana State Senate from 1976 to 1980. Growing up on a family farm, he developed a deep understanding of agricultural issues and rural community needs. As a state senator, Barham advocated for improved infrastructure, educational funding, and support for local farmers. He also served on various committees addressing natural resources and economic development. After his term, he returned to farming and remained active in community organizations and local politics. Barham's commitment to public service and rural advocacy earned him respect among constituents. He passed away in 2014, remembered for his dedication to Louisiana's agricultural and legislative progress.

Paul Andreu was a French architect celebrated for his pioneering work in airport design. He studied at the École Polytechnique and the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. His most notable projects include the design of Charles de Gaulle Terminal 1, Abu Dhabi International Airport, and Shanghai Pudong Airport. Andreu's designs are characterized by bold structural forms, extensive use of natural light, and a fusion of functionality and sculptural aesthetics. He taught at the École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts and influenced a generation of architects. Over his career, he received the Légion d'honneur and several international awards. He passed away in 2018, leaving a lasting legacy in modern architecture.

Jake Eberts began his career in finance before moving into film production in the 1970s. As head of Goldcrest Films, he produced critically acclaimed movies including Chariots of Fire, Gandhi, and Dances with Wolves, all of which won Academy Awards. Eberts was recognized for his ability to support ambitious, artistic films and guide them to commercial success. He founded Alliance Communications, contributing to the growth of the Canadian film industry. Eberts served as a mentor and consultant to emerging filmmakers, sharing his expertise in financing and production. His commitment to storytelling and innovation left a significant mark on international cinema. He passed away in 2012, remembered as a visionary producer.

Arthur Ashe, born in 1943, was an American tennis player who made history as the first Black man to win the US Open in 1968, the Australian Open in 1970, and Wimbledon in 1975. Off the court, he was a dedicated journalist and civil rights advocate, campaigning against apartheid in South Africa and raising awareness of HIV/AIDS after contracting the virus from a blood transfusion. Ashe authored several books and used his platform to promote education and social justice. His legacy endures through foundations and scholarships established in his name following his death in 1993.

John Motson was an English sportscaster whose voice became synonymous with football coverage in the United Kingdom. Over a career spanning more than five decades at the BBC, he commentated on over 200 England international matches and more than 20 FA Cup finals. Motson was instantly recognizable by his trademark sheepskin coat and in-depth analysis of the game. His clear, descriptive commentary style endeared him to generations of football fans. He received an OBE for services to sports broadcasting and remained active in media circles even after his retirement. Motson passed away in 2023, leaving a lasting legacy in sports journalism.