July 21

Queen Jeonghyeon (1462-1530) was a queen consort of the Joseon dynasty in Korea, married to King Seongjong. She exercised considerable influence over court politics and succession during a dynamic period in Joseon history. Known for her scholarly patronage, she supported the compilation of Confucian texts and rituals. Jeonghyeon founded charitable institutions and promoted agricultural and social reforms. Her legacy endures in Korean history as a powerful royal who shaped governance and culture.

Anna Sforza (1476-1497) was an Italian noblewoman of the influential Sforza family in Renaissance Milan. Daughter of Duke Galeazzo Maria Sforza, she played a key role in dynastic alliances through her marriage to Alfonso I d'Este. Her brief tenure as Duchess of Ferrara linked the Sforza and Este houses at the height of Italian politics. Despite her early death, Anna’s lineage and connections had lasting political significance among Italian princely states. She is remembered for her important role in the network of Renaissance power.

Anna de' Medici (1616-1676) was a member of the powerful Medici family of Florence. Daughter of Grand Duke Cosimo II, she married Archduke Ferdinand Charles of Austria, linking two major European dynasties. Her position brought Medici cultural patronage to the Habsburg court in Innsbruck. She supported the arts and religious institutions, reflecting her family’s legacy of patronage. Anna’s diplomatic and familial ties exemplified the strategic marriages of Europe’s noble houses.

Isadora Bennett was born in 1900 and became one of the most influential promoters of modern dance in the United States. As a publicity agent and manager, she helped launch and sustain the careers of seminal choreographers including Martha Graham, José Limón, and Doris Humphrey. Bennett's Manhattan-based agency specialized in dance-centered public relations, securing performance opportunities and critical recognition for her clients. Her strategic networking and media savvy transformed how modern dance was presented and perceived by the public. Over decades, she broadened the reach of contemporary choreography beyond niche audiences. Bennett's contributions left an enduring impact on American performing arts before her death in 1980.

Born in Montreal, Gold practiced law after graduating from McGill University. He was appointed to Quebec's Superior Court in the early 1960s and rose through the ranks. As Chief Justice, he presided over significant civil cases with a reputation for fairness. Gold contributed to legal education through seminars and mentorship of young lawyers. He advocated for reforms in civil procedure to improve access to justice. His tenure helped shape the modern judiciary in Quebec and earned him widespread respect.

Born in El Bayadh, Algeria, into a Jewish family, Daniel moved to France for his studies. He co-founded Le Nouvel Observateur in 1964 and served as its editor-in-chief for decades. His essays and interviews combined investigative rigor with intellectual depth. Daniel wrote extensively on politics, culture, and human rights in postwar Europe. He interviewed global figures such as Fidel Castro and Nelson Mandela. Throughout his career he championed progressive causes and freedom of the press. His voice shaped French media and public debate well into the 21st century.

Born in Prague in 1926, Karel Reisz fled to Britain as a child and later studied at the Slade School of Fine Art. He began his career making documentary films before directing his landmark feature Saturday Night and Sunday Morning in 1960. Reisz's work captured the realities of working-class life and helped define the British New Wave alongside peers like Tony Richardson. Over his career he directed a range of films, including The French Lieutenant's Woman and Out of Africa. He also produced influential projects and mentored emerging talent in British cinema. Reisz received several awards and nominations for his contributions before his death in 2002.

Born in 1943, Shrum began his career as a speechwriter for Senator Robert F. Kennedy. He later served as an advisor to House Speaker Tip O'Neill and managed Walter Mondale's 1984 presidential campaign. Shrum co-founded the international consulting firm Shrum Group, working on political and issue advocacy campaigns around the globe. He has written extensively on election strategy and public policy. As a professor at the University of Southern California, he taught courses on campaigning and public diplomacy. Shrum is known for his deep knowledge of Democratic politics and commanding communication skills.

Born on July 21, 1959, in Istanbul, Reha Muhtar rose to prominence hosting live news and talk programs.\nHe has interviewed numerous political leaders and public figures with a direct and analytical approach.\nMuhtar's dynamic presentation style helped shape modern Turkish broadcast journalism.\nOver his career, he has worked across major television networks and produced investigative reports.\nHe remains an influential voice in media, offering commentary on social and political developments.

Born in Erlabrunn, East Germany, in 1964, Weißflog dominated international ski jumping from the early 1980s to the mid-1990s. He won Olympic gold medals in Sarajevo, Calgary, and Lillehammer, and claimed multiple World Championship titles. Known for his elegant style and competitive consistency, he is one of only five athletes to achieve the ski jumping Grand Slam. After retiring, he pursued journalism, covering winter sports and providing expert commentary for German media outlets. He remains a respected figure in the ski jumping community.

Born in Reykjavík in 1965, Bergsson forged a successful career as a defender with Tottenham Hotspur and Bolton Wanderers, earning over 70 caps for Iceland. His aerial strength and tactical awareness made him a captain for both club and country. After hanging up his boots, he earned a law degree and practiced as a lawyer. He later served as president of the Football Association of Iceland, overseeing the nation's historic qualifications for Euro 2016 and the 2018 World Cup. He continues to advocate for football development in Iceland, supporting youth programs and infrastructure.

Yvonne Sampson began her career in regional radio before transitioning to television as a sports reporter. In 2013, she joined Fox Sports Australia, covering rugby league, boxing, and cricket for live broadcasts and studio shows. She later became the host of SportsCenter Asia on ESPN Star Sports, expanding her profile across the region. In 2018, Sampson moved to the Nine Network as the sports presenter on Today, one of Australia's leading morning programs. She has fronted coverage of major events including the NRL Grand Final and the Melbourne Cup. Sampson is a supporter of initiatives to promote women in sports media and regularly mentors aspiring journalists.