September 12

Samuel Joseph May (1797–1871) was a prominent American Unitarian minister and fervent abolitionist. He organized anti-slavery societies, delivered powerful speeches, and published essays advocating immediate emancipation. May also championed women's education and temperance, reflecting his broader commitment to social justice. As principal of Antioch College, he implemented progressive educational reforms promoting equality. He influenced notable reformers such as Lucy Stone through his moral leadership and activism. May's tireless campaigns laid the groundwork for civil rights advancements in the antebellum era.

Born in 1818, Richard Jordan Gatling was an American physician turned inventor. He sought to reduce battlefield casualties by developing one of the first rapid-fire weapons. In 1862, he patented the Gatling gun, a hand-cranked weapon capable of sustained fire. Gatling’s invention played a key role in the evolution of modern firearms and influenced future automatic weapons. He later turned his attention to agricultural machinery, continuing his spirit of innovation. Gatling held multiple patents and was celebrated as one of America’s most inventive minds of the 19th century.

Born in 1900, Martha Atwell became an influential director during radio's Golden Age. She oversaw dramatic programming at major networks, shaping early radio drama with innovative techniques. Atwell introduced creative sound design and pacing that enhanced the listener's experience. She mentored actors and writers, fostering talent and elevating the standards of radio theater. Her career spanned the 1920s through the 1940s, contributing to the medium's rapid evolution. She passed away in 1949, leaving a legacy of excellence in broadcast storytelling.

Born in England in 1905, Linda Agostini emigrated to Australia with her family as a child. She lived a relatively quiet life until her untimely death in 1934, when her body was discovered under mysterious circumstances. The sensational newspaper coverage and subsequent police investigations sparked a national fascination. Over the years, numerous theories have circulated but none have definitively solved the case. Her story continues to captivate historians and true crime enthusiasts alike.

Born in 1921 in Minneapolis, McGee began his journalism career after serving in the US Marine Corps during World War II. He joined NBC News and became one of the original anchors of the Today show, covering major events such as presidential elections and international crises. His calm and authoritative presence made him a trusted voice in American households throughout the 1960s and early 1970s. McGee also reported on landmark stories including the Civil Rights Movement and the Watergate scandal. He died in 1974, leaving a legacy as a pioneering television journalist.

Born in 1921 in Trabzon, Cansever studied architecture at Istanbul Technical University and embarked on a career that balanced cutting-edge design with respect for tradition. He worked on significant restoration projects, including historic monuments across Turkey, and advocated for sustainable urban planning. His theoretical writings and lectures influenced architectural education and preservation policies. In 1986, he received the Aga Khan Award for Architecture for his innovative mosque designs. Cansever's interdisciplinary approach left a lasting mark on Turkey's architectural landscape before his death in 2009.

Born in Vire, Normandy, Michel Drucker began his broadcasting career on radio in 1965 before transitioning to television. He gained prominence with the variety show Champs-Élysées in the 1980s, featuring interviews and musical performances. For more than 50 years, Drucker has conducted conversations with global celebrities, politicians, and cultural figures. His relaxed and engaging style helped shape French talk-show television, earning him multiple awards, including the Legion of Honour. He has authored books on his experiences in journalism and remains a respected figure in French media. In 2022, he marked over half a century of continuous broadcasting, cementing his legacy as a media pioneer.

Charles Burlingame was an American commercial pilot with a background as a naval aviator. He served as the captain of American Airlines Flight 77 and tragically lost his life when the aircraft was hijacked and crashed into the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. Burlingame was admired by colleagues and passengers for his professionalism and dedication to safety. His career spanned decades of piloting both military and civilian aircraft, earning him respect in aviation circles. He is remembered as a hero who faced extraordinary circumstances with courage.

Marguerite Blais is a Canadian media personality turned politician. She began her career as a journalist and television host, covering social and health issues in Quebec. In 2007, Blais was elected to the National Assembly of Quebec as a member of the Liberal Party, where she held portfolios including Social Services and Seniors. She became known for her advocacy on behalf of vulnerable populations, seniors, and mental health awareness. After leaving political office, Blais returned to broadcasting, continuing to raise public awareness on community and social welfare topics. Her work has had a lasting impact on Quebec society.

Gustav Brunner is an Austrian engineer whose work has left a significant mark on the world of Formula One racing. Over his career, he designed chassis and aerodynamic packages for multiple teams, including ATS, Ferrari, and Minardi. Brunner's technical insight and creative solutions helped improve performance and reliability under the demanding conditions of top-tier motorsport. His contributions extended beyond design, as he mentored young engineers and fostered innovation in engineering departments. Brunner remains a respected figure among racing engineers for his enduring influence on car development.

Kara David is a Filipino journalist and documentarian.\nShe has reported on social and environmental issues across the Philippines.\nDavid's documentaries have earned awards for investigative depth.\nShe is recognized for her empathetic storytelling and commitment to human rights.\nThrough television and digital media, she brings untold stories to a wide audience.\nDavid continues to produce impactful journalistic works.

Grant Denyer (born 12 September 1977) is an Australian television presenter, motor racing driver, and journalist. He gained fame as the host of game shows such as Millionaire Hot Seat and Family Feud, becoming a household name in Australian entertainment. Before his television career, Denyer competed in the Australian Mini Challenge and Targa Tasmania, showcasing his versatility behind the wheel. He has also worked as a motorsport journalist, covering major racing events and writing feature stories for automotive publications. In 2014, he set a Guinness World Record for hosting a live television broadcast while completing the fastest time for a lap in a production vehicle on the Top Gear test track. Denyer continues to balance his passions for broadcasting and motorsport, engaging audiences across multiple platforms.