September 01

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 to King Frederick III of Denmark, Anna Sophie became Electress of Saxony through her marriage to John George III. She played a role in courtly life and patronized music and religious institutions. Anna Sophie bore several children, securing dynastic ties between Denmark and Saxony. Known for her piety, she supported charitable works and the arts. After her husband's death, she returned to Denmark and remained influential until her death in 1717.

Born in Brentford in 1811, Montgomrey dedicated his life to the welfare of his community. As a local leader, he organized and funded public works, including schools and parks, to improve residents’ quality of life. He championed education, infrastructure, and charitable causes, earning widespread respect among his fellow citizens. His generous contributions and vision helped shape the modern identity of Brentford. Montgomrey remained actively involved in civic affairs until his death in 1883.

Born in 1851, Clum embarked on a career in journalism in the American West. He founded and edited the Tombstone Epitaph, one of Arizona’s earliest newspapers. Appointed as an Indian agent at the San Carlos Reservation, he pursued policies of self-governance for Apache tribes. Clum notably negotiated the peaceful surrender of prominent Native American leaders. He later served as mayor of Tombstone and continued publishing regional newspapers until his death in 1932.

Born in 1873 in Portugal. Established the settlement of Gafanha da Nazaré on the Aveiro Lagoon. Organized the construction of docks, churches, and marketplaces to support the growing fishing village. Attracted families and merchants, transforming the area into a thriving coastal community. He led local development efforts until his death in 1925, leaving a lasting legacy on the region’s maritime culture.

Walter Reuther began his career organizing auto workers in Flint, Michigan, during the 1930s. As president of the United Auto Workers from 1946 until his death, he negotiated major contracts that secured better wages, benefits, and workplace conditions. A visionary leader, he advocated for racial integration, civil rights, and social justice within and beyond the labor movement. Reuther played a key role in the 1963 March on Washington alongside Martin Luther King Jr., highlighting labor's solidarity with civil rights. He also served as president of the Congress of Industrial Organizations, expanding union influence nationwide. Remembered for his eloquence, strategic acumen, and commitment to equality, Reuther helped shape modern American labor relations.

Lou Kenton was an English social activist who dedicated his life to advocating for labor rights and social justice. He worked with various organizations to combat fascism, racism, and economic inequality throughout the 20th century. His grassroots campaigning and public speaking helped raise awareness on critical social issues in post-war Britain. Kenton also contributed to community development projects, supporting education and cultural initiatives. His efforts inspired younger activists and left a lasting impact on the social movement landscape in England. Remembered for his passion and perseverance, he exemplified the power of civic engagement in effecting change.

Born in 1920, Liz Carpenter began her career in journalism, writing for prominent newspapers and magazines. She later joined the White House staff as the first female press secretary to First Lady Lady Bird Johnson during the Kennedy administration. Carpenter authored several books, including memoirs and works on politics and women’s issues, showcasing her wit and insight. She co-founded the Women’s National Press Club and was an outspoken advocate for women’s rights and political participation. Throughout her life, Carpenter used her platform to promote social change and mentor young journalists. Her legacy endures as a pioneer for women in both media and politics.

Born in 1920, Eduardo J. Corso established himself as a respected lawyer in Uruguay, handling a range of civil and commercial cases. He also pursued journalism, contributing articles to national newspapers and periodicals on legal and social issues. Corso’s writing was characterized by clear analysis and a commitment to truth, earning him a loyal readership. He balanced his legal practice with editorial responsibilities, often addressing topics of reform and justice. Throughout his career, he participated in public debates and legal seminars, sharing his expertise. Corso passed away in 2012, remembered for his dual impact on law and journalism in Uruguay.

Arvonne Fraser dedicated her life to advancing women's equality and political participation in the United States. She served as director of the Minnesota Office for the Economic Status of Women and worked on multiple presidential campaigns, advising on gender issues. Fraser co-founded the Humphrey Institute's International Women's Democracy Center, promoting female leadership worldwide. She authored books and articles on feminist policy and political strategy, influencing generations of activists. Her career spanned grassroots organizing to diplomatic roles, including representing the U.S. at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. Fraser's legacy is marked by her steadfast commitment to empowering women and expanding democratic inclusion.

Madden 'Beano' Cook was a charismatic sports journalist whose colorful commentary became a staple of televised analysis. Born in Pennsylvania in 1931, he worked for newspapers before transitioning to television and radio broadcasting. On ESPN's SportsCenter and CNN Sports Illustrated, Cook provided sharp insights infused with humor and historical context. He was celebrated for his encyclopedic knowledge of sports trivia and memorable on-air personality. Cook's blend of expertise and entertainment helped shape modern sports media culture.

Bernie Wagenblast is an American journalist specializing in transportation and transit reporting. He founded the Transportation Communications Newsletter (TCN) to cover news and developments in the transportation industry. Wagenblast has hosted various radio shows and podcasts focused on rail, aviation, and urban mobility. He is recognized for his in-depth interviews with industry leaders and experts. His work has influenced public understanding of transportation policy and infrastructure planning. Wagenblast continues to be an active voice in the field, providing analysis and commentary on emerging trends.