August 21

Shimazu Yoshihiro was a leading samurai commander of the Shimazu clan during Japan’s Warring States era. He played a crucial role in the clan’s unification of Kyushu and the Korean campaigns under Toyotomi Hideyoshi. At the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600, he famously organized a strategic retreat that saved his forces from annihilation. His bold leadership and innovative tactics earned him respect across warring factions. Yoshihiro’s legacy endured in military chronicles and clan histories long after his passing in 1619.

Henri II de Rohan emerged as the principal leader of French Protestants during the Wars of Religion. He commanded Huguenot forces in several rebellions against King Louis XIII and Cardinal Richelieu. His military skills were evident at the sieges of Montauban and Montpellier. After the Peace of Alès in 1629, he authored a memoir detailing his campaigns and political vision. A staunch advocate for religious freedom, Rohan’s writings influenced later Enlightenment thinkers. He died in exile, but his legacy as a defender of minority rights endured in French history.

James FitzJames, 1st Duke of Berwick, was born in 1670 as the illegitimate son of King James II of England. He became a Marshal of France and distinguished himself in the War of the Spanish Succession, notably at the Battle of Almanza. As a skilled military tactician, he commanded forces in several European theaters, earning acclaim from Louis XIV. In addition to his military career, FitzJames held political office and served as Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire. His blend of martial prowess and diplomatic acumen influenced early 18th-century Franco-English relations. Elevated to ducal status, he remained a prominent figure until his death in 1734.

Banastre Tarleton was born in 1754 in Liverpool and became one of the youngest officers in the British Army. He earned fame as Lieutenant Colonel of the British Legion during the American Revolution, noted for his swift cavalry raids and controversial conduct at the Battle of Waxhaws, earning the nickname 'Bloody Tarleton'. After returning to Britain, he entered Parliament as an MP for Liverpool, where he supported military and colonial policies. Despite debates over his tactics, Tarleton remained influential in early 19th-century British politics. He died in 1833, remembered for his dynamic military leadership and parliamentary career.

Hiram Walden was born in 1800 in Vermont and later moved to New York, where he built a career both as a militia general and a public servant. He attained the rank of general in the New York state militia, gaining respect for his leadership and organizational skills. Transitioning to politics, Walden was elected as a Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives for New York, serving from 1875 to 1877. In Congress, he advocated for veterans' benefits and rural infrastructure improvements. After his term, he returned to his business pursuits and remained active in civic affairs. Walden died in 1880, remembered for his combined military and legislative contributions to his state.

Emiliano Mercado del Toro enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1918 and served during World War I, assigned to the 161st Infantry Regiment in Panama. Born in 1891, he returned to Puerto Rico after his military service and lived a life marked by hard work and community involvement. Mercado del Toro achieved international recognition as a supercentenarian when he surpassed 114 years of age. At the time, he held the record for the oldest living man and the oldest veteran. His longevity drew media attention and inspired research into healthy aging. He passed away in January 2007 at the age of 115 years and 156 days. Mercado del Toro's life story remains an extraordinary testament to resilience and longevity.

Keith Arbuthnott (1897–1966), 15th Viscount of Arbuthnott, was a distinguished Scottish soldier and nobleman. Commissioned into the British Army, he saw action on the Western Front during World War I and later served with distinction in World War II. Rising to the rank of Colonel, he was recognized for his leadership and dedication to duty. Upon succeeding to his family's viscountcy, he took an active role in civic and local affairs in Scotland. Arbuthnott balanced military service with peerage responsibilities, leaving a legacy of honor and service upon his death in 1966.

Albert Irvin served in the Royal Air Force during World War II, experiences that later influenced his artistic vision. After the war, he studied at the Camberwell School of Arts and Crafts and became a leading figure in British abstract expressionism. Irvin's paintings are celebrated for their bold color palettes, dynamic brushwork, and emotional intensity. He exhibited widely at venues such as the Royal Academy and the Tate Gallery. Irvin also taught art for many years, mentoring a new generation of British artists. In recognition of his contributions to the arts, he was appointed OBE, securing his place among Britain's most influential post-war painters.