October 21

Isabelle Eberhardt was born in Geneva in 1877 and became known for her daring expeditions into the Sahara. Adopting male attire and converting to Islam, she immersed herself in local cultures and wrote vivid travelogues that challenged European stereotypes. Her essays and letters, published posthumously, revealed both her adventurous spirit and reflective literary style. Eberhardt’s life was marked by a search for freedom and identity at a time when female travelers were rare. She died in a flash flood near Aïn Séfra in 1904, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking exploration and writing.

Born in 1921 in Texas, Jim Garrison served in the U.S. Army before entering law and becoming the Orleans Parish District Attorney in 1962. He famously conducted a high-profile investigation into the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, charging businessman Clay Shaw in 1967. His methods and conclusions were met with both praise and criticism, sparking national debate over the case. Garrison’s pursuit of the truth inspired Oliver Stone’s 1991 film "JFK," which renewed public interest in the assassination. He continued to practice law and speak on legal reform until his death in 1992.

Born in 1904, Antoni Dobrowolski dedicated his life to educating generations of Polish students. He worked through times of great change, from the interwar period to post-communist Poland. His passion for teaching inspired countless young minds over many decades. Dobrowolski's longevity made him a remarkable witness to the evolution of education in the 20th century. He passed away in 2012 at the age of 108.

Born in 1907, Jaroslav Kozlík was an early figure in Czech volleyball, both as a competitor and coach. He excelled on the court, representing his country and popularizing the game domestically. After retiring as a player, he devoted himself to education, training future generations of athletes. His work as a teacher and mentor left a lasting impact on Czech sports culture. Kozlík lived to 105, passing away in 2012, and is remembered for his dual legacy in sport and education.

Born in 1930, Alf Kumalo began photographing life under apartheid in South Africa. His images documented pivotal events and the everyday struggles of black South Africans. As a photojournalist, he published in major newspapers, shedding light on social injustice. His work earned international acclaim and played a role in galvanizing the anti-apartheid movement. Kumalo remained active in teaching and advocacy until his passing in 2012.

Born in 1936, Major Owens began his career as a librarian in New York City. He entered politics, serving in state and local government roles to improve public services. In 1983, Owens was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Brooklyn for twelve terms. He championed education, children's welfare, and civil rights legislation throughout his tenure. After retiring in 2007, he continued to lecture and support community programs until his death in 2013. His commitment to public service and advocacy for underserved communities is widely remembered.

Bobi (1992–2023) was a Rafeiro do Alentejo dog from Portugal. He gained fame in 2023 for being authenticated by Guinness World Records as the oldest living dog at age 31. Living with his owners in the village of Conqueiros, Bobi became a national celebrity. His longevity surpassed typical canine lifespans by decades. Media outlets around the world covered his birthday celebrations and life story. Bobi's record highlighted the care and genetics contributing to canine longevity.