December 21

John Seymour, born around 1474, rose to prominence as a courtier under King Henry VIII. He held various positions in the royal household and was known for his diplomatic and administrative skills. Seymour's daughter, Jane, would become the king's third wife and queen consort. He managed estates and navigated the complex politics of Tudor England with tact. His death on December 21, 1536, occurred shortly after his daughter's coronation, marking the end of his influential career at court.

William Davison served as principal secretary to Queen Elizabeth I and managed correspondence and state papers. He played a controversial role in the execution of Mary, Queen of Scots, by passing the death warrant. Davison's actions led to his arrest and disgrace, though he bore the queen's displeasure alone. He later served as ambassador to France, representing English interests abroad. He died in obscurity in 1608, his career marked by service, controversy, and loyalty to the crown.

Born in 1539 to King Gustav I of Sweden, Catherine Vasa was a member of the royal Vasa dynasty. She married Christopher II, Margrave of Baden-Rodemachern, forging important political alliances. Her life reflected the dynastic marriages that shaped European politics in the Renaissance. After her husband's death, she returned to Sweden and managed family estates. She died on December 21, 1610, remembered as a princess who bridged Swedish and German nobility.

Sir Hugh Paterson inherited the Baronetcy of Bannockburn and managed extensive estates in central Scotland. He oversaw local governance and contributed to the social and economic life of the region. His tenure coincided with the aftermath of the Restoration and political realignments in Scotland. Paterson maintained loyalty to the crown amid shifting allegiances. He died in 1701, leaving a legacy tied to the historic lands of Bannockburn.

Violette Neatley Anderson was born in 1882 and overcame racial and gender barriers to pursue law. She became one of the first African-American women admitted to the Illinois bar in 1909. As an Assistant State's Attorney, she fought for justice in Cook County. In 1926, she became the first black woman to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court. Anderson later served as a judge on the Chicago Municipal Court. She devoted her career to advancing opportunities for women and minorities in the legal profession. She died in 1937, remembered as a trailblazer for equality and justice.