August 06

Louise de La Vallière (1644–1710) was a French aristocrat who captivated King Louis XIV and became his mistress from 1661 to 1667. Known for her piety and modesty, she bore the king two daughters and a son who died in infancy. After losing the king's favor, she entered a Carmelite convent, dedicating the remainder of her life to penance and prayer. Her transition from the royal court to religious life inspired contemporaries and later artists. La Vallière's story reflects the intricate dynamics of power, love, and religion at the Sun King's court.

Born into slavery in 1848, Susie Taylor escaped to Union lines during the American Civil War and volunteered as a nurse. She became the first African-American woman to serve officially in the U.S. Army, tending wounded soldiers at Freedmen's Hospital. After the war, she turned to teaching and, in 1878, published 'Reminiscences of My Life in Camp', one of the earliest memoirs by a Black woman. Her candid account provided rare insight into wartime experiences and challenged prevailing racial stereotypes. Taylor continued her work in education and community outreach, advocating for veterans and freedpeople. She died in 1912, remembered for her courage, compassion, and literary contribution to African-American history.

Louella Parsons was an influential American journalist born in 1881. She became one of Hollywood's first gossip columnists, starting in the 1910s. Parsons wielded immense power, with studios courting her favor and fearing her criticism. Her columns appeared in newspapers nationwide, introducing audiences to film stars. She played a key role in shaping public perceptions of celebrities during Hollywood's Golden Age. Her career spanned over five decades, leaving a lasting impact on entertainment journalism.

Born Arthur Flegenheimer, Dutch Schultz built a criminal empire in New York City through bootlegging and racketeering. He became infamous for his ruthless methods and lavish lifestyle in the 1920s and early 1930s. Schultz survived several assassination attempts before his own downfall. In 1935, he was ambushed and fatally wounded while waiting to see a lawyer. His life and exploits inspired characters in literature and Hollywood films. Schultz's era of organized crime left a lasting mark on American history.

Born in Alabama, Virginia Foster Durr became a key figure in the fight against segregation and voter suppression in the mid-20th century. She worked alongside the NAACP and other leaders to support landmark legal cases, including the defense of the Scottsboro Boys. Durr's home served as a meeting place for civil rights strategists, including Rosa Parks. She also advocated for women's rights and juvenile justice reform throughout her life. After her husband served in the Roosevelt administration, she continued her activism in Washington, D.C. Durr's memoirs and public speaking inspired generations committed to social change.

Jean Dessès gained fame in the 1930s for incorporating Grecian lines and draping techniques into his couture creations. His designs attracted European royalty and Hollywood stars, who admired his mastery of fabric and silhouette. Dessès opened ateliers in Paris, Rome, and Athens, blending classical inspiration with modern fashion trends. He pioneered hand-pleating methods that became a hallmark of his label. After retiring in 1963, his work continued to influence designers and fashion historians. Today, his gowns are studied as exemplary models of mid-century elegance and craftsmanship.

Diana Keppel was born in 1909 and became the Countess of Albemarle through marriage to the Earl of Albemarle. She served as a prominent figure in British high society and was recognized for her role within the peerage. Throughout her life, she witnessed significant historical events, including both World Wars and the modern transformations of the British monarchy. Known for her longevity, she lived to the age of 103, passing away in 2013. Her long tenure as Countess reflected her dedication to her family title and responsibilities within the aristocracy.

Samuel H. Bowers Jr. was a leading figure in the White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan, advocating violent methods to oppose the civil rights movement. He co-founded this Klan chapter to enforce segregation and white supremacy across the American South. Under his leadership, the group carried out bombings and assaults targeting civil rights activists. Bowers was eventually indicted and convicted for conspiracy to violate civil rights, spending years in federal prison before his death in 2006. His actions contributed to a surge in hate crimes during the 1960s and 1970s. Bowers's legacy remains a stark reminder of the violent resistance to social progress in twentieth-century America.

Inday Badiday was a pioneering figure in Philippine media who brought celebrity gossip to mainstream audiences. Born Maria Cecilia Castellvi, she adopted the nickname 'Inday Badiday' for her bold reporting style. She hosted popular talk shows where she interviewed major film and television stars. Her fearless questions and dramatic flair earned her a reputation as the 'Queen of Intrigue'. Beyond television, she wrote columns and published tabloids, influencing Philippine entertainment journalism for decades.

Ron Jones began his career in British television as an assistant production manager before moving into directing. He worked on a variety of drama series, documentaries, and television specials for the BBC and independent production companies. Jones was known for his meticulous attention to detail and ability to manage complex shoots under tight deadlines. He directed episodes of numerous television dramas and oversaw production on documentaries and specials. His work contributed to the evolution of British television during a period of technological change.

Rajendra Singh is an Indian environmentalist born in 1959. He is best known for pioneering water conservation techniques in Rajasthan, earning him the nickname 'Waterman of India.' He co-founded the NGO Tarun Bharat Sangh to revive traditional water management systems. His work has led to the restoration of thousands of water bodies and revitalized local communities. He received the Stockholm Water Prize in recognition of his sustainable development efforts. Singh's model has inspired global movements in grassroots environmental conservation.

Mary Ann Sieghart is an English journalist and broadcaster born in 1961. She has served as a columnist for The Times and The Independent, covering politics and culture. Sieghart is a regular presenter on BBC Radio 4 programs such as 'The World at One' and 'Woman's Hour.' She co-authored the book 'A Great Improvisation,' exploring the relationship between the UK and the EU. Sieghart has been recognized for her clear interviewing style and incisive commentary. Beyond journalism, she advocates for free speech and gender equality in media.