November 18

Originally trained as a painter and panorama artist, he invented the daguerreotype process in collaboration with Nicéphore Niépce, announcing it to the French Academy of Sciences in 1839. The daguerreotype became the first commercially viable photographic method, revolutionizing visual documentation. Daguerre's process allowed detailed images on silver-coated copper plates, sparking global interest in photography. He was honored by the French government with a lifetime pension and granted his method to the public domain. Beyond photography, he continued exploring optics and artistic panorama displays, influencing both science and art. His work marks the birth of practical photography and profoundly impacted cultural and scientific practices.

Sir Alexander Arnold Constantine Issigonis (1906-1988) was an automotive engineer best known for creating the original Mini in 1959. His design featured a transverse engine and front-wheel drive layout that maximized interior space in a compact body, influencing small car design for decades. Issigonis also contributed to the development of the Morris Minor and other British Motor Corporation vehicles. Knighted for his contributions, his innovative engineering principles remain foundational in automobile design.

Vassilis Vassilikos (1933–2023) was a prominent Greek journalist, novelist, and diplomat. His 1966 novel 'Z' became a global sensation after its film adaptation won an Academy Award. Over his career, Vassilikos authored more than 40 novels and numerous essays, exploring themes of politics and human rights. He served as Greece's ambassador to UNESCO from 2004 to 2009, promoting cultural dialogue and international cooperation. A respected voice in Greek media, he wrote for leading newspapers and magazines on politics and culture. His work bridged literature, journalism, and diplomacy, influencing generations of writers and policymakers. Vassilikos's legacy endures through his contributions to modern Greek literature and his advocacy for freedom of expression.

Yeşim Ustaoğlu studied architecture and later turned to cinema, earning critical acclaim with her debut feature Journey to the Sun in 1999, which premiered at Cannes. Her follow-up film, Pandora’s Box, won multiple awards and cemented her reputation as a bold voice in Turkish cinema. Ustaoğlu writes, directs, and produces her own work, often focusing on themes of identity, displacement, and human rights. She is also known for her work as a journalist and activist, advocating for women’s issues in Turkey. International film festivals regularly showcase her films, recognizing her as a director who blends poetic visuals with powerful narratives. Her influence continues to grow as she mentors emerging filmmakers and pushes the boundaries of cinematic storytelling.

Steven Moffat began his writing career with the acclaimed sitcom Press Gang before creating the romantic comedy series Coupling. In 2005, he took over as head writer and executive producer of Doctor Who, where his inventive storytelling and complex characters brought the show to global prominence. Alongside Mark Gatiss, he co-created Sherlock in 2010, earning multiple Emmy Awards and critical acclaim for its modern take on the classic detective. Moffat’s work is celebrated for its witty dialogue, intricate plots, and emotional depth. Outside television, he has penned stage plays and short fiction, showcasing his versatility across media. His influence on contemporary British television has inspired a generation of writers and producers.

Rita Cosby is an American television journalist, author, and talk show host. She has worked with major networks including NBC, Fox News, and MSNBC, conducting high-profile interviews. Cosby has written bestselling books such as “Blonde Ambition” and “Quiet Hero,” the latter about a Vietnam War veteran. Her reporting has covered global events, from the fall of the Berlin Wall to conflicts in the Middle East. She has received multiple awards for her journalism, including a Gracie Award and Peabody nomination. Cosby is recognized for her fearless interviewing style and in-depth investigative reporting.

George Kotsiopoulos is an American stylist and television personality. He served as style editor and co-host on E! News, providing fashion commentary and tips. Kotsiopoulos has worked with celebrities such as Cher and Christina Aguilera as a personal stylist. He appeared on E!’s Fashion Police and contributed to fashion magazines and blogs. Known for his witty insights, he has influenced red carpet and celebrity style trends. He continues to work in fashion media and styling for high-profile clients.

Born November 18, 1970, in Champaign, Illinois, Kelly earned her law degree from Albany Law School before transitioning into broadcast journalism. She rose to prominence as a Fox News anchor, gaining acclaim for her tough interviews and political coverage. In 2017, she joined NBC News, hosting 'Megyn Kelly Today' and interviewing world leaders. Kelly has authored best-selling books and launched independent media ventures, reinforcing her reputation as a fearless voice in news and commentary.

Born in 1980 in Saudi Arabia, Hamza al-Ghamdi became one of the five hijackers aboard United Airlines Flight 175 on September 11, 2001. Trained by al-Qaeda operatives, he assisted in commandeering the aircraft that was flown into the South Tower of the World Trade Center. His actions were part of a coordinated terrorist attack that claimed thousands of lives and changed global security policies. Little is known about his early life before joining extremist networks. Al-Ghamdi died in the crash, but his role remains studied in analyses of the 9/11 plot’s execution and logistics.

Justin Knapp began contributing to Wikipedia in 2005 and became known for his prolific editing. In 2012, he became the first user to reach over one million edits on the English Wikipedia. Knapp has edited articles across a wide range of topics, from sports to history and pop culture. He was awarded Wikipedia’s highest honor, the Barnstar for Extraordinary Service, for his dedication. Outside of editing, Knapp advocates for free knowledge and open-source collaboration worldwide.