October 25

Enguerrand II succeeded his father as Count of Ponthieu and became a key feudal lord in northern France. He supported William the Conqueror in his campaigns against neighboring territories and held lands strategically along the Somme River. Renowned for his martial leadership, he led his forces at key engagements and strengthened the defenses of his county. Enguerrand died in combat in 1053, and his valor in battle was noted by contemporaries. His death marked the end of a generation of Ponthieu counts actively involved in Norman politics.

Born in 1180, Gilbert inherited the earldoms of Gloucester and Hertford and emerged as a key figure in the Welsh Marches. He served under King John during the First Barons' War and later supported King Henry III in securing royal authority. Gilbert fortified his estates, negotiated borders with the Welsh princes, and participated in military campaigns across England and Wales. Known for his martial skill and loyalty to the crown, he also managed extensive landholdings and castle construction. He died in 1230, and his leadership influenced the balance of power on England's western frontiers.

A member of the House of Albret, Charles I of Albret was appointed Constable of France and served as the kingdom’s chief military officer. He commanded French forces during the Hundred Years' War and was recognized for his strategic leadership. At the Battle of Agincourt on October 25, 1415, he led a cavalry charge against English forces. Despite his valor, he was killed in action, marking a significant loss for the French crown. His death weakened the royal army and impacted the political influence of the Albret family.

Born in 1389 into the Burgundian branch of the Valois dynasty, Philip II inherited the title Count of Nevers. He served as a captain in the French army during the Hundred Years' War, aligning closely with the Duke of Burgundy. Philip led troops in several campaigns against English forces and supported Burgundian political goals. On October 25, 1415, he took part in the Battle of Agincourt, where he was killed in the fierce conflict. His death diminished Burgundian influence and highlighted the heavy toll of the war on French nobility.

Born in 1371 into the House of Lorraine, Frederick I held the title Count of Vaudémont and was involved in the politics of northeastern France. He supported the Burgundian faction during the Hundred Years' War and took part in border skirmishes against English and Armagnac forces. Frederick commanded knights and infantry in key military actions. At the Battle of Agincourt on October 25, 1415, he fought valiantly but was killed in combat. His death exemplified the dangers faced by medieval nobility in the dynastic conflicts of France.

Born in 1385, Jean I inherited the dukedom of Alençon, becoming one of France’s foremost peers. He was a dedicated supporter of the French crown during the Hundred Years' War and took part in military campaigns against England. Known for his courage and leadership, Jean led charges on the battlefield. During the Battle of Agincourt on October 25, 1415, he was killed while rallying his troops amid intense fighting. His loss was deeply felt among the French nobility and weakened regional defenses.

Born in 1384 into the ducal family of Brabant, Anthony succeeded his father as duke at a young age. He allied with the French crown against English forces during the Hundred Years' War. Anthony led Brabantine knights into battle and was commended for his bravery. On October 25, 1415, he charged into the fray at Agincourt and was killed in the fierce combat. His death left Brabant without its duke and had political repercussions in the Low Countries.

Born in 1394 into one of England’s leading noble families, Michael de la Pole inherited the earldom of Suffolk as a child. He served King Henry V as a military commander in the Hundred Years' War and took part in sieges and campaigns across France. Known for his loyalty and leadership, he led a division of English troops at Agincourt. On October 25, 1415, he was among the many English nobles who fell during the battle. His death was a notable loss for both his family and the English military aristocracy.

Born in 1373 as a grandson of King Edward III, Edward of Norwich held a prominent place in England’s royal hierarchy. He served in administrative and diplomatic roles across Ireland and Scotland and was a trusted courtier of King Henry IV and Henry V. Edward also led military expeditions during the Hundred Years' War, demonstrating tactical skill. At the Battle of Agincourt on October 25, 1415, he commanded forces and was killed in action. His death highlighted the heavy involvement and sacrifices of England’s ruling class in the conflict.

A member of the Welsh gentry, Dafydd Gam opposed the rebellion of Owain Glyndŵr and supported the English crown in the early 15th century. He served under King Henry V and gained a reputation for military skill and loyalty. Dafydd fought in various campaigns in Wales and on the continent, earning royal favor for his service. At the Battle of Agincourt on October 25, 1415, he was killed while reportedly saving the king’s life according to legend. His bravery earned him a place in Welsh folklore and a lasting legacy as a symbol of loyalty.

Henry Knox began his military career as a chief artillery officer in the Continental Army during the American Revolution. He led the famous Noble Train of Artillery, transporting captured cannons from Fort Ticonderoga to aid George Washington's forces. After the war, President George Washington appointed him as the first Secretary of War, a position he held from 1789 to 1794. Knox advocated for a strong national defense and helped establish the United States military framework. He also served in various diplomatic and administrative roles, shaping early American policy. A close advisor to the founding generation, Knox's contributions laid the groundwork for the nation's defense institutions.

Abbas Mirza was the heir apparent to the throne of Qajar Persia and a pioneer of military modernization in the early 19th century. Educated in European military techniques, he reorganized the Persian army along Western lines, introducing modern drills, weapons, and training. He led forces in the Russo-Persian Wars and sought alliances with Britain to strengthen Persia's defenses. Beyond the military, Abbas Mirza supported educational reforms, sending students abroad to study science and engineering. His vision laid the foundations for subsequent modernization efforts in Iran. Although he predeceased his father and never became shah, his reforms had a lasting impact on the Persian state.