July 20

Born in 1374, Roger Mortimer inherited the title of 4th Earl of March as a descendant of King Edward III. Recognized as heir presumptive after the death of Richard II's direct heirs, he held significant lands in England and Wales. Mortimer served as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, displaying administrative and military competence. His potential future as monarch was cut short when he died of the plague in 1398. This sudden loss of the heir paved the way for Henry Bolingbroke's rise and the establishment of the Lancastrian dynasty. Mortimer's untimely death had profound implications for the course of English history.

William More of Loseley (1520–1600) served as a prominent courtier under Mary I and Elizabeth I, holding roles including justice of the peace and sheriff of Surrey. He maintained close connections with the Tudor court, undertaking diplomatic missions and managing local governance. More authored extensive letters and diaries, later compiled as the Loseley Manuscripts, which provide historians with rich details of sixteenth-century court intrigues and social customs. His meticulous accounts cover everything from royal ceremonies to legal disputes, making his writings a vital source for the study of Elizabethan England. Though not a high-ranking noble, his observations capture the nuances of everyday life and political maneuvering in Tudor society. He died in 1600, leaving a lasting legacy as a recorder of his age.

Peregrine White was born in November 1620 aboard the Mayflower while it was anchored off Cape Cod, making him the first English child born to Pilgrim parents in America. His father died soon after landing, and young White grew up among the Plymouth colonists, learning farming and trade in the fledgling settlement. He later served as a soldier in King Philip's War, defending the colony during conflict with Native American tribes. After the war, White married Sara Bassett and established a farm in Marshfield, Massachusetts, where he became a respected community member. His long life made him a living connection to the original Mayflower voyage. He died in 1704 at the age of 84.

Frank Reynolds was born in Kansas in 1923 and served as a soldier during World War II, earning a Bronze Star. After the war, he became a journalist, working for newspapers and radio before joining television. Reynolds was an anchor and correspondent for ABC News, covering major events such as Vietnam and Watergate. Known for his calm demeanor and integrity, he reported from the front lines and interviewed world leaders. His work earned him awards, including Emmys, for investigative and international reporting. Reynolds continued anchoring the ABC Evening News until his death in 1983.

Herbert Turner Jenkins (1907-1990) was an American law enforcement officer. He dedicated his career to policing, serving his community with integrity and diligence. Over several decades, Jenkins worked in various roles within the police department, where he was respected for his leadership and fairness. He played a key role in modernizing department practices and improving community relations. Jenkins retired after a long career and remained a respected figure in law enforcement circles until his death on July 20, 1990.

Born in 1928 in Sheffield, Alastair Burnet began his career at The Economist before moving into television news in the 1960s. He became a familiar face as lead anchor for ITN’s News at Ten and later presented the BBC’s Panorama and Newsnight programmes. Burnet was admired for his authoritative delivery, incisive interviews, and elegant writing style. He returned to The Economist as editor and helped guide the magazine through a period of renewed influence. Burnet was honored with a CBE for his services to journalism and continued writing until his passing in 2012.

Helen Thomas (1920-2013) was an American journalist and author. She was the first female member and later president of the White House Correspondents' Association. Over her six-decade career, she covered every U.S. president from John F. Kennedy to Barack Obama. She wrote for United Press International and served as bureau chief at the White House. Thomas authored multiple books including 'Front Row at the White House'. Known for her direct questioning style and fearless pursuit of government accountability. Often called the 'First Lady of the Press', her legacy inspires generations of journalists.

Michael Brooks was an American political commentator, host, and writer, best known for his engaging discussions on global affairs. He began his career contributing to progressive media outlets such as The Young Turks and The Majority Report. In 2017, he launched The Michael Brooks Show, where he explored politics, culture, and history with humor and insight. Brooks was praised for making complex topics accessible to a broad audience and fostering thoughtful conversations. He wrote articles for national publications, showcasing his analytical skills and wit. Tragically, he died suddenly in July 2020 at the age of 36, leaving behind a dedicated following and lasting impact on political commentary.