October 14

Born into Viking and Frankish nobility, Gerloc was the daughter of Rollo, the founder of the Norman dynasty. She married William Towhead, Count of Poitou, forging alliances between Normandy and Aquitaine. Through this marriage, she became the mother of William IV, Duke of Aquitaine, influencing regional politics. Gerloc's role exemplified the strategic use of marriage to secure peace and power during medieval Europe. She was known for her piety, patronage of local churches, and support of monastic communities. Her life and connections reflect the complex web of dynastic relationships in 10th-century France.

Isabella of Gloucester (c.1173–1217) was a prominent English noblewoman and the first wife of King John before he ascended the throne. Born into the powerful Gloucester lineage, she married John in 1189 and served as queen consort until their marriage was annulled in 1199. After the annulment, Isabella retained her inheritance and estates, living independently as a wealthy aristocrat. Her life reflects the complex dynastic politics of the Plantagenet era and the agency of medieval noblewomen. Isabella’s story provides insight into the roles and alliances that shaped England’s royal household.

Born in 1902, Yamaguchi rose through the ranks of an Osaka-based gang to become its leader. Under his command, the syndicate expanded into gambling, smuggling, and protection rackets. He navigated fierce rivalries and police crackdowns during Japan's modernization. Yamaguchi maintained a complex relationship with local authorities. His reign as boss ended abruptly with his death in 1942, leaving a power vacuum in the underworld.

Harriet Shaw Weaver was born in 1876 into an intellectual English family. As editor of the literary magazine "The Egoist", she provided critical encouragement and funding for avant-garde writers. Weaver became a key patron of James Joyce, financing the publication of Ulysses and later Finnegans Wake. A committed suffragist and social activist, she also campaigned for women's rights and cultural innovation. Her efforts helped shape the course of 20th-century literature by nurturing groundbreaking voices. Weaver died in 1961, leaving behind a legacy as both an editor and advocate for literary freedom.

Edmund A. Chester was an American journalist born in 1897. He became a leading figure in radio and early television broadcasting, helping shape news programming. Chester served as a correspondent during major world events, delivering information to audiences nationwide. He played a pivotal role in establishing news divisions at major networks, expanding the reach of broadcast journalism. Chester's vision for live news coverage laid the groundwork for modern television news formats. His contributions earned him recognition as a pioneer of broadcast media in the United States.

Born in 1917 in Nahant, Massachusetts, Cleveland Amory carved a niche as a social commentator and animal rights champion. He authored bestselling books like 'The Proper Bostonians' and the memoir 'The Last Resorts'. A founder of the Fund for Animals, Amory campaigned tirelessly against animal cruelty and for the preservation of endangered species. His humorous and incisive writing brought animal welfare issues to the forefront of public discourse. Amory hosted 'Amory on the Wild Side', a radio show blending entertainment with advocacy. His legacy endures through his writings and the ongoing work of the organizations he inspired.

Born in 1920 in Gawler, South Australia, Max Fatchen began his career as a newspaper reporter, capturing the essence of regional communities. His insightful articles and columns endeared him to readers for their warmth and authenticity. Transitioning to books, Fatchen wrote acclaimed works of fiction and children's literature, often drawing on his experiences growing up in the Australian countryside. His narratives combined humor, vivid imagery, and a deep appreciation for nature. He received numerous awards for his contributions to journalism and literature, becoming a beloved national figure. Fatchen's legacy endures through his timeless stories that celebrate the spirit of rural Australia.

Helen Kelly was born in 1964 and served as President of the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions. She advocated for safe working conditions, fair wages, and stronger health and safety regulations, earning widespread respect among labour communities. Kelly led national campaigns on issues such as paid parental leave and workers' compensation reform. Her leadership was characterized by passionate public speaking and a deep commitment to social justice. She also worked to amplify the voices of underrepresented workers, including low-income and indigenous groups. Kelly received several awards recognizing her service to workers and the community. She passed away in 2016 after a battle with motor neuron disease, leaving a lasting legacy in New Zealand's labour movement.