September 11

Born around 600 AD, Yuknoom Ch'een II (also known as Yuknoom the Great) was the paramount ruler of Calakmul, one of the most powerful Maya city-states. He reigned during a time of intense rivalry with Tikal, forging alliances and waging strategic campaigns that extended Calakmul's influence across the Maya region. Under his leadership, Calakmul experienced a flourishing of monumental architecture and artistic achievement. His dynastic policies strengthened the Snake dynasty and secured the city's legacy in Maya history. Though many details of his life remain shrouded, Yuknoom Ch'een II is remembered as one of the greatest rulers of the Classic Maya world.

Born in 1182, Minamoto no Yoriie was the eldest son of Minamoto no Yoritomo and became the second shōgun of Japan's Kamakura shogunate in 1202. His reign was marked by rising tensions between the Hōjō regents and rival clans seeking influence over the young shōgun. After just a year in power, he was forced to abdicate under pressure from Hōjō Tokimasa, effectively ending his political authority. Yoriie's later life was spent under house arrest, and he died in 1204 under unclear circumstances. Despite his short tenure, his rule highlighted the growing power of the regent Hōjō clan and set precedents for shogunal succession.

Born in 1476 to the House of Savoy, Louise of Savoy became Duchess of Angoulême and mother of King Francis I. She acted as regent during Francis's absences in Italy (1515–1516) and again after his capture at the Battle of Pavia in 1525, negotiating the Treaty of Madrid. A shrewd diplomat and patron of the arts, Louise supported the early French Renaissance and maintained stability during turbulent times. Her guidance shaped French politics and culture, and her close relationship with her son allowed her to influence major decisions. Louise died in 1531, remembered as one of the most powerful women of her era.

Born in 1525, John George succeeded his father Joachim II as Elector of Brandenburg in 1571. His long reign was marked by efforts to strengthen central authority, improve the legal system, and support the arts and education. He navigated religious tensions between Protestant and Catholic states within the Empire, maintaining relative stability in Brandenburg. John George patronized architectural projects in Berlin and Brandenburg, laying foundations for the later rise of Prussia. He died in 1598 after nearly three decades of rule, leaving a more organized and prosperous electorate.

Born in 1572 to the Mughal Emperor Akbar, Daniyal Mirza was a prominent royal figure in the late 16th century. He served as governor of Thatta and later of Ajmer, overseeing administration and military campaigns. Well-educated in Persian and Islamic studies, he played a crucial role in court diplomacy. His life was marked by rivalry with his brothers over succession to the throne. Daniyal’s reported struggles with alcohol contributed to his early death in 1604 at age 32. Despite his brief life, he left a lasting impression on Mughal imperial history.

Daniel S. Dickinson was born in 1800 in New York and trained as a lawyer before entering politics. He served as New York's 13th Lieutenant Governor from 1843 to 1845 and later represented New York in the U.S. Senate from 1844 to 1851. A leader of the Democratic Party, he was known for his moderate stance during the heated debates over slavery and states' rights. Dickinson earned the nickname Old Counsellor for his reputation as a skilled negotiator and legal mind. After leaving national office, he remained active in law and public affairs, influencing political discourse until his death in 1866.

Julian Byng, 1st Viscount Byng of Vimy, was a senior British Army officer whose command of the Canadian Corps at the Battle of Vimy Ridge in World War I marked a turning point in the conflict. Promoted to field marshal, he later served as the 12th Governor General of Canada from 1921 to 1926, fostering national unity and supporting the arts. Born in Staffordshire, England, Byng's military career spanned campaigns in Africa and Europe, demonstrating tactical skill and concern for his troops. His decision during the 1926 "King-Byng Affair" tested the limits of constitutional authority and had lasting implications for Canadian governance. Byng's combination of battlefield leadership and diplomatic acumen cemented his reputation on both sides of the Atlantic.

Scipione Borghese, 10th Prince of Sulmona, was a member of Italy's historic aristocracy who embraced both public duties and daring pursuits. As an Italian senator, he engaged in political affairs during a period of national change. Borghese also competed in early automobile races, showcasing his passion for speed and innovation. His mountaineering expeditions in the Alps reflected a love of exploration and a drive to push personal limits. Beyond his adventurous lifestyle, he supported social causes in his native region and patronized cultural initiatives. His multifaceted career exemplified the blend of tradition and modernity in early 20th-century Italy.

Felix Dzerzhinsky was a key figure in the Bolshevik Revolution, entrusted by Lenin to establish and lead the Cheka, the Soviet state's first secret police organization. Under his direction, the Cheka implemented the Red Terror, a campaign of political repression and counter-revolutionary suppression. Dzerzhinsky's organizational skills and unwavering loyalty to the party secured his reputation as a formidable administrator. He later held various government posts, shaping the early Soviet security apparatus and internal policies. Despite controversy over his methods, Dzerzhinsky's impact on the development of modern intelligence and state control techniques is widely studied. He remains a contentious historical figure, emblematic of both revolutionary zeal and authoritarian rule.

Sudhamoy Pramanick dedicated his life to the pursuit of social justice and political empowerment in British India. He worked tirelessly to improve education and rural welfare in Bengal, advocating for public health and literacy initiatives. An active member of local Congress movements, Pramanick participated in non-cooperation efforts against colonial rule. After independence, he continued serving his community through regional political offices and social organizations. His commitment to grassroots activism left a lasting impact on the political landscape of West Bengal.

Templer graduated from the Royal Military Academy, Woolwich, and saw action in both World Wars, rising to command VII Corps under General Montgomery. In 1952, he was appointed High Commissioner and Director of Operations in Malaya, where his counterinsurgency strategies helped defeat communist guerrillas. Known for his directive to 'win hearts and minds', he blended military action with political reform and civic programs. After his service in Malaya, Templer held senior army commands before retiring in 1958. His leadership during a critical period of counterinsurgency influenced modern military doctrine.

Born in Trautskirchen, Bavaria, Bouhler joined the Nazi Party early and rose to become Chief of the Führer Chancellery under Adolf Hitler. He played a central role in coordinating Hitler's personal office and the party's internal affairs. From 1939, Bouhler co-headed the T4 program that systematically murdered tens of thousands of disabled individuals under the guise of mercy killings. His administrative skills earned him Hitler's trust, making him one of the regime's most powerful bureaucrats. After the fall of Berlin, he was captured by Allied forces and died in custody in 1945.