November 28

Betty Parris was born in 1682 in Boston and later moved to Salem Village with her family. At just nine years old she began exhibiting strange fits and accused neighbors of witchcraft. Her claims, influenced by local fears and religious tensions, sparked the infamous Salem witch trials. Over 200 people were accused and 20 executed before the hysteria ended. Betty eventually recanted and the trials were discredited, but her early allegations left a lasting mark on American history. She lived out her days away from the spotlight, marrying Thomas Carter and relocating to Boston.

Maria Teresa Poniatowska was born in 1760 into one of Poland's most powerful aristocratic families. Sister to King Stanisław II August, she spent her youth at the royal court in Warsaw. Maria Teresa married into the important Krasiński family and managed extensive estates. She hosted salons that attracted leading artists and intellectuals of the Polish Enlightenment. During the partitions of Poland she provided support to cultural and philanthropic initiatives. She lived through dramatic political changes and died in 1834, remembered as a patron of arts and guardian of her family's legacy.

Maria Antonia of Parma was born into the Bourbon-Parma dynasty and lived through the turbulent Napoleonic era. As a princess of Parma, she witnessed the shifting allegiances of European powers and the fall of many ruling houses. Known for her devout faith and cultural patronage, she maintained a court that supported artists and intellectuals. Despite political upheaval, she remained a respected figure among European nobility. Her life reflects the complexities faced by royalty during a time of revolution and restoration.

Born in 1916, Lilian became Princess of Réthy through marriage into the Réthy family. As a royal figure, she fulfilled ceremonial duties and represented her principality at official events. Throughout her life, she showed dedication to social and cultural activities within her region, supporting local traditions and public gatherings. Respected for her grace and commitment, Lilian remained an enduring symbol of her community until her death in 2002.

Susan Brookes is a British television chef and food writer who rose to prominence in the 1980s. She became a familiar face on morning television, sharing easy-to-follow recipes and culinary tips with audiences across the United Kingdom. Brookes has authored several cookbooks focusing on home cooking and family meals. Her approachable style and emphasis on fresh, affordable ingredients have influenced a generation of home cooks. She continues to appear on television and contribute to food magazines and newspapers.

Joe Dante is an American director and producer celebrated for his imaginative work in the horror and comedy genres. Born in 1946 in Morristown, New Jersey, he began his career editing trailers for Roger Corman’s studio, where he developed his unique cinematic style. Dante directed cult favorites such as Piranha, The Howling, and Gremlins, earning a reputation for combining thrills with humor. He has also directed episodes for television series like The Twilight Zone and Masters of Horror. Over his career, Dante has been praised for his inventive storytelling, special effects craftsmanship, and playful approach to genre filmmaking.

Dick Morris began his career working on local political campaigns in New York. He became a leading strategist for President Bill Clinton's successful 1992 and 1996 campaigns. Known for his rapid-response approach and voter-focused polling techniques, he co-founded a political consulting firm advising high-profile candidates. Morris authored several best-selling books on American politics, including 'Behind the Oval Office'. After parting ways with the Clinton administration, he became a frequent television commentator and columnist. His outspoken predictions and analysis have made him a controversial figure in political circles. Despite criticism, Morris remains a sought-after speaker and strategist.

English-Welsh journalist Sian Williams gained prominence as a leading news presenter for BBC. She spent over two decades hosting BBC Breakfast and reporting for major news programs. Williams covered significant global events, including the London Olympics and the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. In 2012, she left the BBC to join Channel 5 News, expanding her role as a presenter and editor. She has also written about mental health and resilience, drawing on her personal experiences.

Sam Seder is an American actor turned political commentator and media host. He began his career as a stand-up comedian and appeared in films like 'Wet Hot American Summer'. Seder hosts 'The Majority Report', a popular political talk show on YouTube and satellite radio. He frequently contributes to MSNBC and other news outlets as a progressive commentator. His work focuses on politics, media critique, and social justice issues.

Graduating with a degree in environmental science, Darren Bett joined the BBC Weather Centre in the early 1990s after training with the Met Office. He has delivered weather forecasts across BBC One, BBC Breakfast, and the BBC News Channel. Bett is known for his reliable and viewer-friendly presentation style, often explaining complex meteorological information in accessible terms. Over his decades-long career, he has become one of the BBC's most recognizable weather presenters. He has also contributed to weather-related articles and educational outreach. Bett continues to inform audiences with timely updates and seasonal insights.

Born in Tasikmalaya, West Java, Kurniawan studied literature and began his career as a journalist covering social issues. He achieved international acclaim with his novel Man Tiger, blending folklore and historical narrative. His book Beauty Is a Wound garnered global attention for its lyrical prose and exploration of Indonesian history. Kurniawan's works have been translated into multiple languages and earned awards such as the Prince Claus Award. He continues to write novels and short stories that probe postcolonial identity and resilience.