December 15

Prince Munetaka, son of Emperor Go-Saga, was appointed shōgun of the Kamakura shogunate at age ten. His position was largely ceremonial, with real power held by the Hōjō regents. His tenure saw efforts to stabilize the military government after internal strife. In 1266 he abdicated and became a Buddhist monk known as Gyōshō. Munetaka's life illustrates the balance of power between imperial and warrior classes in medieval Japan.

Carlos Soublette fought in the Venezuelan War of Independence under Simón Bolívar. He rose to the rank of general and later served as vice president of the new republic. Soublette first became president in 1837, steering Venezuela through economic and political challenges. Reelected in 1843, he implemented infrastructure improvements and promoted education. Known for his integrity and moderation, he remained an influential statesman until his death in 1870.

Born in 1886, Wanda Krahelska-Filipowicz emerged as a prominent advocate for Polish independence and women's rights. She participated in early 20th-century anti-imperial actions against Russian authorities. During World War II, she joined the Polish resistance, providing aid to underground movements and persecuted individuals. After the war, Krahelska-Filipowicz continued her political activism, championing civil liberties and social justice. Her courage and leadership in both activism and resistance made her a celebrated national figure. She died in 1968, leaving a legacy of determination in Poland's struggle for sovereignty.

Valentin Varennikov (1923-2009) was a decorated Soviet general who served on the Eastern Front during World War II. He rose through the ranks to command key military districts and was awarded the title Hero of the Soviet Union. After retiring from active duty, he entered politics as a member of the Russian State Duma, advocating for veterans. During his political career, he championed conservative defense policies and veterans' welfare. Varennikov's leadership and dedication to service made him a respected figure in both military and political circles.

John R. Allen is a retired United States Marine Corps four-star general. He commanded the International Security Assistance Force and U.S. Forces in Afghanistan from 2011 to 2013. Allen served as Director of the White House Situation Room and Senior Military Assistant to the Secretary of Defense. After his military career, he became Special Presidential Envoy for the Global Coalition to Counter ISIL. He has held leadership roles at the Brookings Institution, bridging policy and security studies. Allen holds advanced degrees in international relations and frequently lectures on national security. He is recognized for his strategic expertise and efforts to build multinational defense partnerships.