September 01

Born in 948 as Yelü Xian, he ascended the throne in 969 following the death of his father. During his reign, he strengthened central authority, expanded trade routes, and actively patronized Buddhism. He skilfully managed relations with the Song Dynasty and nomadic tribes along the northern frontier. Under his leadership, the Liao Dynasty experienced cultural flourishing and economic prosperity before his passing in 982.

Born in 1145 in what is now Spain, Ibn Jubayr embarked on the Hajj pilgrimage in 1183, documenting his journey through Egypt, the Levant, and Iraq. His travel chronicle provides invaluable insights into the politics, culture, and landscapes of the Islamic world. A skilled poet, he infused his accounts with vivid descriptions and reflective observations. His works influenced later explorers and remained a key source for historians studying the 12th-century Middle East.

Born in 1288 into the Piast dynasty, Elizabeth Richeza was the daughter of King Przemysł II of Poland. She married King Wenceslaus II of Bohemia at a young age and later wed Rudolf of Habsburg. Throughout her life, she navigated dynastic politics, served briefly as regent, and maintained close ties with the papal court. Renowned for her patronage of religious institutions and the arts, she left a lasting mark on Central European history before her death in 1335.

Born in 1341, Frederick III ascended the Sicilian throne as a minor under the regency of his mother, Queen Elisabeth. His reign was marked by ongoing conflicts with the Angevin dynasty and challenges from powerful island barons. Despite his moniker, he pursued diplomatic marriages and sought to stabilize his realm. His rule saw both military skirmishes and efforts at legal reform until his death in 1377.

Born in 1453, Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba served the Catholic Monarchs of Spain, earning the title 'El Gran Capitán'. He introduced flexible infantry formations and coordinated artillery use, winning decisive victories at Ceriñola and Garigliano. His innovations laid the foundation for modern European warfare. Later, he held high offices and continued to influence military strategy until his death in 1515.

Born in 1477 near Faenza, Fanfulla entered the life of a condottiero, serving various Italian states and foreign powers. He fought in key battles such as Fornovo, demonstrating courage and tactical skill. His career reflected the shifting alliances and fierce combat of Renaissance Italy. Known for his daring exploits, he remained a legendary figure until his death in 1525.

Born in 1561, Gervase Helwys served as Lieutenant of the Tower of London. In 1615, he was implicated in the poisoning of Thomas Overbury, a scandal that rocked the Jacobean court. Convicted for his involvement, he was executed at Westminster, highlighting the intrigue and corruption of King James I’s reign.

Born in 1566 in London, Alleyn rose to fame performing in plays by Christopher Marlowe and other contemporaries. He co-founded the Lord Admiral’s Men, one of the most successful acting companies of the era. With earnings from his career, he established Dulwich College in 1619 to educate poor scholars and founded Alleyn’s School. His vision for education and theatre left a lasting legacy before his death in 1626.

Born in 1577, Scipione Borghese was elevated to cardinal at age 16 by his uncle, Pope Paul V. A passionate patron of the arts, he commissioned works from Bernini and acquired masterpieces by Caravaggio. He built the Villa Borghese, which housed his extensive collection of classical sculptures and Renaissance paintings. His curatorial vision shaped one of the world’s finest art collections until his death in 1633.

Born in 1579, John Frederick was elected Prince-Bishop of Bremen, balancing secular rule with ecclesiastical duties. His tenure coincided with the early years of the Thirty Years’ War, forcing him to negotiate between Protestant and Catholic powers. He worked to maintain Catholic influence in his territories and engaged in diplomatic missions. He died in 1634 amid the turmoil of Europe’s largest religious conflict.

Born into the cadet branch of the Bourbon family, Henri succeeded his father as Prince of Condé in 1612. As a devout Huguenot, he navigated the religious tensions of the French court under Louis XIII. He led Protestant forces in several regional conflicts and sought to preserve his family's influence against the crown. Despite periods of suspicion and conflict with the monarchy, he remained a key player in aristocratic politics. His leadership and resilience shaped the course of France's internal struggles until his death in 1646.

Maria Angela Astorch was born in Barcelona and entered the Carmelite order at age nine. She became known for her deep mystical experiences and devotion to prayer within the convent. Astorch cared for her fellow nuns during plague outbreaks and ministered to the sick in her community. Her writings on spiritual instruction influenced later Carmelite practice. Canonized in 1926, she is venerated as a model of contemplative life and charity.