September 19

Born in 1477 to Duke Ercole I of Ferrara, Ferrante d’Este was the younger son of the eminent House of Este. He served as a condottiero, leading mercenary forces in the Italian Wars. Ferrante navigated shifting alliances among Italian city-states, including Milan and Venice. A cultured patron, he maintained a court that attracted artists and humanists. His dual role as nobleman and military commander reflected the era’s blend of politics and warfare. He died in 1540, leaving a complex legacy of martial skill and cultural engagement.

John Ross Key (1754–1821) was an American lieutenant during the Revolutionary War. After military service, he practiced law and served as a judge in Maryland. Key presided over local courts and was respected for his legal acumen and fair rulings. He was the father of Francis Scott Key, author of the United States national anthem. Key helped establish early American judicial practices in the post-Revolutionary period. He retired to his estate in Frederick County, Maryland, leaving a legacy in law and family.

Born in 1905, Judith Auer joined the anti-Nazi resistance group known as the Rote Kapelle, serving as a courier and organizer of espionage operations between Germany and Switzerland. She was arrested by the Gestapo in 1943 amid a major crackdown and sentenced to death for treason. Auer was executed in 1944, becoming a symbol of courageous opposition within Germany. Posthumously recognized for her bravery, her story continues to inspire scholars and activists studying resistance movements.

Born in 1935, Benjamin Thurman Hacker embarked on a distinguished career in the United States Navy. He served in key leadership roles aboard warships and later oversaw vital training programs for naval officers. Hacker was respected for his strategic acumen and dedication to maintaining fleet readiness throughout his tenure. After retiring from active duty, he remained involved in veterans’ organizations and naval history initiatives. His commitment to mentorship and excellence left a profound impact on the Navy community until his death in 2003.