November 09

Elijah Parish Lovejoy was born in 1802 and became a Presbyterian minister committed to social reform. As editor of the St. Louis Observer, he used his newspaper to denounce slavery and advocate for abolition. Facing violent opposition, he moved his press to Alton, Illinois, where he was killed by a pro-slavery mob in 1837 while defending his publication. His death made him the first white martyr of the abolitionist movement and galvanized public opinion in the North. Lovejoy's legacy endures in campaigns for freedom of the press and the fight against slavery in America.

Byron De La Beckwith was a member of the Ku Klux Klan who gained infamy for the murder of civil rights activist Medgar Evers in Jackson, Mississippi. On June 12, 1963, he fatally shot Evers outside his home, sparking national outrage amid the burgeoning civil rights movement. Despite strong evidence, De La Beckwith evaded conviction in two trials in the 1960s due to all-white juries. He was finally retried and convicted in 1994, more than 30 years after the crime, and sentenced to life in prison. His case highlighted deep racial tensions and failures of the justice system in the American South. De La Beckwith remained unrepentant throughout his life, continuing to espouse racist views. His actions and trial outcomes underscore the brutal resistance faced by civil rights advocates. He died in prison in 2001, a stark reminder of racial violence in American history.

Born in 1961, Jill Dando began her career as a newsreader before rising to prominence as a presenter of the BBC's Crimewatch, where her clear delivery helped solve real criminal cases. She also fronted popular programs like Holiday and Breakfast Time, becoming one of Britain's most recognizable faces. Awarded a BAFTA for her work, Dando was revered for her professionalism and warmth. Her untimely death in 1999 prompted one of the largest police investigations in British history and led to the establishment of memorial scholarships in her name. Her dedication to journalism continues to inspire media professionals.

Ryan Murphy is an American television writer, producer, and director celebrated for creating groundbreaking series such as Glee, American Horror Story, and Pose. He co-founded the production company Ryan Murphy Productions, shaping his signature style of diverse storytelling and bold visual aesthetics. Murphy's work has earned him multiple Emmy Awards and critical acclaim for tackling social issues and representation. His influence extends to Broadway, film, and podcasts, making him a versatile force in modern entertainment. Known for cultivating ensemble casts and innovative formats, Murphy continues to redefine television narrative boundaries.