July 29

Born in 869 in Samarra, Muhammad al-Mahdi is the final Imam in Twelver Shia belief. He became Imam at a young age following his father's death and later entered a state of occultation, disappearing from public view. Shia Muslims believe he will reappear as the Mahdi to establish justice and peace on Earth. His hidden status has inspired centuries of religious devotion, scholarship, and cultural traditions. The doctrine of the Mahdi remains central to Shia theology and identity.

Born in 996, Fujiwara no Norimichi was the fifth son of the powerful Fujiwara regent Michinaga. He served as Sesshō and later as Kampaku to Emperors Go-Sanjō and Shirakawa, wielding considerable authority at court. His tenure marked the height of Fujiwara clan dominance over imperial succession and administration. Norimichi patronized Buddhist temples and promoted cultural pursuits such as poetry and calligraphy. His political legacy shaped the Heian court's structure and the role of regency in Japanese governance.

Born in 1166 to Theobald III of Champagne, Henry II married Queen Isabella I of Jerusalem in 1192. He became King of Jerusalem in his own right, balancing his rule between France and the Levant. During his reign, he defended the kingdom's territories against Muslim forces and managed complex Crusader politics. He was known for his chivalry, diplomatic skill, and promotion of Frankish culture in the Holy Land. Henry died in 1197 in Acre, leaving no heir, which led to succession disputes and shifts in Crusader leadership.

Born in 1356, Martin the Elder was the eldest son of King Peter IV of Aragon. He ascended the throne in 1396 and ruled over Aragon, Valencia, and the Balearic Islands until his death. His reign was marked by internal revolts, family disputes, and conflicts with neighboring kingdoms. Despite challenges, he managed to maintain his domains and uphold royal authority. Martin died without surviving legitimate heirs, triggering the Compromise of Caspe and shaping Iberian succession.

Born in 1537 into the influential Téllez-Girón family, Pedro became the first Duke of Osuna in 1562. He was a grandee of Spain and served as a leading courtier under King Philip II. His wealth and connections made him a patron of the arts and a central figure in Madrid's social circle. He managed vast estates and influenced royal policies through his close ties to the monarchy. Pedro died in 1590, leaving a legacy that elevated the prestige of the Osuna duchy.

Born in 1573 to the House of Griffin, Philip II inherited the duchy of Pomerania-Stettin in 1603. He focused on rebuilding his territories after the devastation of earlier conflicts and promoting economic recovery. Philip supported Protestant universities and cultural institutions, fostering intellectual growth in Pomerania. He navigated the tensions of the early Thirty Years' War, maintaining ducal neutrality when possible. Philip died childless in 1618, leading to a division of Pomeranian lands among his relatives.

Born in 1580 in Montevarchi, Francesco Mochi is considered one of the pioneers of Baroque sculpture. His works are noted for their energetic movement and emotional intensity, breaking from Renaissance ideals. Notable pieces include the bronze statue of Saint Veronica and the marble Saint Martha at Orvieto Cathedral. He held prestigious commissions in Rome and Florence, influencing later artists like Bernini. Mochi's legacy endures in his innovative approach to form, gesture, and theatricality in sculpture.

Born in 1605 in Memel (now Klaipėda), Simon Dach studied theology at Königsberg University. He became a university professor and prolific poet, known for writing over 200 hymns and lyrical poems. His hymn 'Ännchen von Tharau' remains part of the German folk and church music tradition. Dach fostered a circle of poets and musicians, contributing to the cultural life of East Prussia. His work blends religious devotion with humanist influences, reflecting Baroque literary trends.

Born in 1646 in Naumburg, Johann Theile studied law before committing to music, learning under Heinrich Schütz. He served as Kapellmeister in Wolfenbüttel and later as Hofkapellmeister in Schleswig. Theile composed over twenty operas, numerous sacred cantatas, and the celebrated St. Matthew Passion. He was among the first Germans to popularize Italianate opera in the German courts. His students and works influenced the next generation of Baroque composers in Northern Europe.

Born in 1744 in Piacenza, Giulio Maria della Somaglia entered the Roman Curia and rose through ecclesiastical ranks. Created a cardinal in 1795, he became a key advisor to Pope Pius VII during tumultuous Napoleonic times. He took part in negotiating the Concordat of 1801, reestablishing relations between France and the Catholic Church. After the fall of Napoleon, he influenced the Congress of Vienna's decisions on papal territories. Della Somaglia's diplomatic skills helped restore and reorganize the Papal States until his death in 1830.

Born in Scotland in 1763, Philip Charles Durham joined the Royal Navy at a young age and rose through the ranks during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. He commanded multiple warships with distinction and was recognized for his tactical leadership. After retiring from active service, Durham transitioned to politics and represented Queenborough in Parliament. His naval expertise informed his political contributions and he advocated for maritime interests. He died in 1845, remembered for his service at sea and in government.

Daniel Drew was born in Carmel, Connecticut, in 1797 and began his career as a livestock trader before moving into finance. He invested in steamboat companies and became a key figure in the rapid expansion of the Erie Railroad. Drew was notorious for his aggressive stock market tactics and clashed with Cornelius Vanderbilt in a famous battle for control of the railroad. His speculative ventures brought him great wealth but also controversy among his peers. He died in 1879, leaving a complex legacy as one of America’s most colorful Gilded Age financiers.