September 27

Born in 867 into a prominent Korean noble family, Kyŏn Hwŏn founded the kingdom of Later Baekje in 900. He established his capital at Wansanju (modern Jeonju) and implemented administrative reforms to strengthen his rule. Known for his military prowess, he expanded his territory at the expense of neighboring states. Internal conflicts and a palace coup led by his sons forced him into exile. He sought refuge in the rival Goryeo court before his death in 936. Kyŏn Hwŏn is remembered as a dynamic ruler who shaped the Later Three Kingdoms period.

Born in 1095 into the influential House of Berg, Richeza married Duke Vratislaus II of Bohemia. As duchess, she fostered ties between Bohemia and the German nobility through strategic alliances. Following her husband's death, she acted as regent and managed court affairs for her young son. She supported monasteries and churches, enhancing the spiritual life of her realm. She died in 1125, leaving a legacy of political acumen and cultural patronage.

Born in 1125, Renaud de Courtenay inherited lands and titles in both England and Normandy. He navigated the complex loyalties between the English crown and Norman lords during King Henry II's reign. His family disputes and alliances shaped the regional balance of power. His descendants became prominent English nobility, including the earls of Devon. He died in 1194, remembered as a key figure in the Angevin realm's noble hierarchy.

Born in 1197, Raymond VII inherited the county amid religious and military turmoil in southern France. He led resistance efforts against the Albigensian Crusade to protect his lands and culture. After prolonged warfare, he negotiated the Treaty of Paris in 1229, ceding territories to the French crown. His rule balanced military defense with diplomatic concessions to preserve his dynasty. He died in 1249, leaving a contested legacy as both a warrior and a statesman.

Born into the prominent Maidalchini family in 1591, Olimpia rose to prominence as the sister-in-law of Pope Innocent X. Leveraging her position, she managed papal finances and political appointments, earning both respect and controversy in Rome. Nicknamed "La Papessa," she was criticized for nepotism and her decisive hand in Vatican affairs. Her influence waned after the pope's death in 1655, and she spent her final years away from court life. Died on September 27, 1657, leaving a legacy of female power in a male-dominated era.

Born in 1497, Emperor Go-Nara ascended the Chrysanthemum Throne in 1526 amid the chaos of warring daimyōs. Lacking sufficient resources, he faced dire financial constraints, often unable to fund court ceremonies and rituals. Despite the rise of powerful warlords like Oda Nobunaga, he maintained traditional court practices and sought support from regional rulers. His reign highlighted the imperial court's vulnerability during civil war. He died on September 27, 1557, remembered for his devotion to imperial dignity in troubled times.

Born into the House of Nassau in 1561, John VII inherited the title of Count of Nassau-Siegen and lands in the Holy Roman Empire. He fought alongside his cousin Maurice of Orange in the Eighty Years’ War, commanding troops against Spanish forces. His marriage alliances and territorial disputes led to the eventual partition of his lands among his heirs. Known for both his martial skill and political acumen, he balanced governance with military leadership. He died on September 27, 1623, leaving a legacy of service in the struggle for Dutch independence.

Born in Munich in 1573, Maximilian I became Duke of Bavaria and was later elevated to Elector in 1623. He founded the Catholic League and played a decisive role in early battles of the Thirty Years’ War, capturing Prague and defending Catholic interests. His alliance with the Habsburgs reshaped the European balance of power. A patron of the arts and architecture, he modernized Bavaria’s administration and finances. He died on September 27, 1651, leaving a strengthened and culturally vibrant Bavaria.

Charles Gordon Greene was born in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1804 and began his career as a printer. He founded and edited influential newspapers, including the Boston Post, shaping political discourse. Greene advocated Democratic Party ideals and took strong stances on issues like labor rights and education. He served in the Massachusetts state legislature, balancing roles in journalism and public service. His editorials were noted for their clarity and persuasive power in a rapidly changing nation. He died in Boston on September 27, 1886, leaving a legacy in both media and politics.

Born in 1860 in Brisbane, Thomas Joseph Byrnes studied law before entering politics. He was elected to the Queensland Legislative Assembly in 1893 and built a reputation as a skilled orator and reformer. In April 1898, he became Premier of Queensland at the age of 37. His government pursued progressive policies on labor rights and legal reform. As Premier, he proposed an arbitration system to resolve industrial disputes. However, his tenure was cut short when he died unexpectedly of pneumonia later that year. His death sparked widespread mourning and he remains noted for his early contributions to Queensland politics.

Sylvia Pankhurst (1882–1960) was a leading English suffragette and daughter of Emmeline Pankhurst. She co-founded the Women's Social and Political Union before breaking away for more radical approaches to social reform. Pankhurst championed working-class causes, anti-fascist movements, and anti-colonial struggles throughout her life. Her publications and speeches advocated for universal suffrage, labor rights, and equal opportunities for women. Pankhurst's unwavering commitment to justice made her a pivotal figure in early 20th-century British politics.

Born in 1876 in Sydney, Jack Lang trained as a lawyer before entering New South Wales politics in 1917. He became the 23rd Premier of New South Wales from 1925 to 1927 and again from 1930 to 1932. Lang championed debt relief measures for the working class during the Great Depression, leading to a constitutional crisis and his dismissal by the Governor. He founded the Lang Labor faction and remained a prominent and controversial figure in Australian politics for decades. Known for his fiery oratory and populist appeal, his policies left a lasting mark on the state’s social welfare system. Lang passed away in 1975.