December 13

Samuel Gompers emigrated from London to New York in 1863, working as a cigar maker before rising through the ranks of craft unions. In 1886, he led the formation of the American Federation of Labor (AFL), advocating for "pure and simple" unionism focused on wages, hours, and working conditions. As AFL president for nearly four decades, Gompers negotiated labor contracts, supported legislation for the eight-hour workday, and opposed socialist influences in the labor movement. His pragmatic approach built alliances with industry and politics, expanding union membership across skilled trades. Gompers died in 1924, having solidified the AFL's role as a central force in American labor history.

Born in 1923 near Wrechen, Germany, Irma Grese joined the SS and served at Ravensbrück, Auschwitz, and Bergen-Belsen during World War II. She became infamous for her extreme cruelty toward prisoners and was nicknamed the "Hyena of Auschwitz." After the liberation of Bergen-Belsen, Grese was arrested and tried by the British for war crimes. In 1945, at only 22 years old, she was convicted and subsequently executed. Her life and trial have been widely studied as an example of the brutality of the Nazi camp system and the role of women in wartime atrocities.

Addie Viola Smith was an American lawyer born in 1893 who dedicated her career to public service and international commerce. After earning her law degree, she took on roles that bridged legal expertise and trade negotiations for the U.S. government. As a trade commissioner, she worked to promote American exports and strengthen economic ties with foreign markets. Smith's work helped pave the way for modern trade agreements and regulatory frameworks. Her pioneering role in a male-dominated field inspired future generations of women in law and diplomacy. Though less widely known today, her efforts had a lasting impact on American commercial policy.

Born in 1903 in Norfolk, Virginia, Ella Baker dedicated her life to civil rights and voter registration campaigns across the American South. She worked with the NAACP as field secretary, helping to campaign against segregation and racial injustice. In 1957, she played a key role in founding the Southern Christian Leadership Conference alongside Martin Luther King Jr. Baker later served as an adviser to the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, emphasizing participatory democracy and grassroots leadership. Known for her behind-the-scenes approach, she believed in empowering local activists to drive social change. She remained active in community organizing and education until her death in 1986.

Born in 1955 in Pune, Smita Patil emerged as a leading figure in India's parallel cinema movement with her debut in the mid-1970s. She delivered critically acclaimed performances in films such as Manthan (1976) and Bhumika (1977), winning the National Film Award for Best Actress. Beyond acting, Patil contributed journalistic pieces addressing social and cultural issues. Her nuanced portrayals of complex female characters earned her widespread respect and numerous awards. Patil balanced her career with advocacy for women's rights and social reform. Tragically, her life and career were cut short in 1986 when she died following childbirth complications.

Born in 1899 into the prominent Vanderbilt and Whitney families of New York, Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney managed family investments and diverse enterprises. He served as an officer in the United States Navy during World War I and later turned to film production in the 1930s. Whitney also invested in thoroughbred racing, agriculture, and early aviation ventures, demonstrating a wide entrepreneurial spirit. A committed philanthropist, he funded numerous educational, medical, and cultural institutions throughout his life. His contributions helped advance scientific research and support the arts across the United States. Whitney passed away in 1992, remembered for his philanthropic legacy and varied business pursuits.

Born in 1896 in Arizona, Ann Nolan Clark spent over three decades teaching Navajo children in New Mexico, immersing herself in their culture and stories. She crafted bilingual educational materials that preserved traditional legends and provided accessible learning for young readers. Clark's 1954 book 'Secret of the Painted Desert' earned a Newbery Honor for its poetic storytelling and cultural depth. In recognition of her contributions to education and literature, she received the Presidential Medal for Freedom in 1964. Over her career, she published more than fifty books that bridged cultural divides through engaging narratives. Clark's work continues to inspire educators and readers interested in Native American history and folklore.

Born in 1920 in London, Edward Blishen began his professional life as a teacher before joining the BBC as a radio producer. He co-authored the acclaimed children's book 'The God Beneath the Sea', a retelling of Greek myths written in lyrical detail. Blishen's memoirs, including 'Roaring Boys', offered candid reflections on his working-class upbringing and the British education system. His engaging narrative style and compassionate insight made him a beloved figure among readers and listeners. Over his career, he championed educational programming and literature that resonated with young audiences. Blishen continued writing and broadcasting until his passing in 1996.

Wade Watts (1919–1998) was an influential American civil rights activist dedicated to dismantling segregation and inequality. He played a key role in organizing community efforts for school desegregation and voting rights in the mid-20th century. Watts collaborated with local and national organizations to lead marches, voter registration drives, and public education campaigns. He was also a respected educator who mentored young activists and promoted civic engagement. His lifelong commitment to justice earned him recognition as a pivotal figure in the civil rights movement.

Noah Klieger (1926–2018) survived the Holocaust and went on to become one of Israel's most respected journalists. Having endured Auschwitz and Mittelbau-Dora, he dedicated himself to preserving the memory of the Shoah through his writing. Klieger reported for leading publications like L'Équipe and The Jerusalem Post, covering major sports events and international affairs. He also served as a key figure in basketball administration, helping to build the sport in postwar Europe and Israel. His commitment to truth, remembrance, and sportsmanship earned him numerous honors and a lasting place in history.