September 14

Jeremiah Dummer (1643–1718) is recognized as the first native-born American silversmith. He apprenticed in Boston and quickly gained a reputation for his exceptional workmanship and design. Dummer produced religious pieces, tableware, and ceremonial objects that blended English styles with colonial influences. His surviving works are rare and highly valued, revealing intricate engraving and refined metalwork. Beyond silversmithing, he served in local government and engaged in land and trade enterprises. Today, his legacy endures through his artworks and his role in establishing an American craft tradition.

Robert Raikes (1736–1811) was a newspaper publisher who became passionate about social reform. In 1780, he established a Sunday school in Gloucester to teach reading and Bible studies to working-class children. The movement quickly spread across England and later to North America and other countries. Raikes' approach combined moral instruction with basic literacy, laying the groundwork for modern Sunday schools. He used his newspaper to advocate for charitable causes and public education. His legacy endures in the millions of students who have benefited from Sunday school programs worldwide.

Margaret Sanger was born in 1879 in New York City and trained as a nurse, where she encountered the effects of unwanted pregnancies. She became a leading advocate for women's reproductive rights, challenging laws against contraception. In 1916, she opened the first birth control clinic in the U.S., which led to her arrest and increased public attention. Sanger founded the American Birth Control League in 1921, laying the groundwork for the Planned Parenthood Federation. She worked with medical and social scientists to develop the first reliable contraceptive pill. Until her death in 1966, she remained a controversial and influential figure in the global birth control movement.

Constance Baker Motley was a pioneering attorney who played a crucial role in desegregation cases, winning more than 200 decisions in the civil rights movement. She served as lead counsel on landmark Supreme Court cases that dismantled Jim Crow laws. In 1966, she made history as the first African-American woman appointed as a United States District Judge. Throughout her tenure on the bench, she continued to advance equity and justice. Motley’s groundbreaking career paved the way for generations of women and minorities in law and government.

A. Jean de Grandpré was a distinguished Canadian lawyer who rose to prominence as president and CEO of Bell Canada, guiding the company through rapid technological growth. Alongside his corporate leadership, he contributed to legal scholarship as an academic, teaching at major universities and publishing on corporate governance. His career exemplified a rare combination of legal acuity, business vision, and scholarly achievement. De Grandpré’s impact on telecommunications and higher education earned him national honors and enduring respect in multiple fields.

Patricia Barringer was a talented infielder in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League during the 1940s, showcasing her skill and passion for the game. After retiring from sports, she pursued a career in accounting, demonstrating the same dedication and work ethic off the field. Her transition from athlete to professional reflects the versatility of early women pioneers in sports. Barringer’s contributions helped pave the way for future generations of female athletes and professionals, leaving a legacy of resilience and achievement.

Carmen Franco was the only daughter of Spanish dictator Francisco Franco. She inherited the ducal title and managed family estates. As a member of the Spanish nobility, she engaged in social and charitable activities. Her life offers insight into the legacy of Spain’s 20th-century political history. She maintained a largely private life outside of direct political roles.

Harry Danielsen began his career as a schoolteacher in Telemark before entering politics with Norway's Conservative Party. He held local office in Notodden municipality and was elected to the Storting (Norwegian Parliament) in 1977. During his term, Danielsen focused on education policy, rural development, and community engagement. After leaving national politics, he returned to education, spearheading initiatives to enhance vocational training and school programs. Danielsen remained an active voice in his community until his death in 2011, leaving a legacy of dedication to both teaching and public service.

Joan Trumpauer Mulholland is an American civil rights activist who braved arrest alongside Black protesters during the 1961 Freedom Rides. She organized sit-ins and demonstrations across the segregated South while still a college student. Mulholland endured jail time and opposition to challenge Jim Crow laws. Her actions inspired others to join the struggle for racial equality. After the civil rights era, she continued her advocacy through education and historical preservation. She served as a public school teacher and museum curator, keeping the history of the movement alive. Her memoirs and interviews provide powerful firsthand accounts of the fight for justice.

Roger Lyons is an English trade union leader who served as General Secretary of the Union of Construction, Allied Trades and Technicians (UCATT) from 1996 to 2004. He began his career as a union organizer and rose through the ranks advocating for construction workers' rights. During his tenure, he negotiated improved safety standards and wages for thousands of members. Lyons championed training programs and apprenticeship schemes to enhance skills in the industry. He represented UK labor interests at international conferences, promoting solidarity across borders. After leaving UCATT, he continued to advise labor movements and sit on industry safety boards. His efforts contributed to greater worker protections and awareness of occupational health issues.

Martin Tyler began his career in football broadcasting in 1969 with BBC Radio before transitioning to television commentary. He became a household name through his work with ITV in the 1980s and later as the lead commentator for Sky Sports upon the launch of the Premier League in 1992. Tyler's authoritative yet passionate style has made his voice synonymous with some of the sport's most memorable moments. He has covered numerous World Cups, UEFA Champions League finals, and key Premier League fixtures, bringing each game to life for millions of viewers. In addition to live commentary, Tyler's voice features in popular football video games, expanding his influence to a new generation of fans.

Jim Angle served in the U.S. Army before beginning a career in journalism in the 1970s. He joined CNN in its early years, covering the White House and Capitol Hill with clarity and depth. Later, he moved to Fox News, where his analytical reporting and calm delivery earned him respect in a polarized media landscape. Over his 40-year career, Angle interviewed presidents, policymakers, and key political figures, helping viewers understand complex issues. He received multiple journalism awards for his work in political coverage. Angle's dual experience in the military and media provided a rare perspective, shaping his reputation as a trusted voice until his passing in 2022.