First name on our list is Isabella Baumfree (almost sounds like "Born Free, which is quite ironic, given that we know her today as Sojourner Truth). As you probably know, she was an abolitionist, due to having been born as a slave in New York. Interestingly, because of the area where she was born and raised, she spoke only Dutch until she was 9 years old. She helped raise Black troops for the Union during the Civil War, so she has that going for her too- not that she needs much. However, she does seem to have exaggerated some of the stories of her life. Not judging here, but it's important to understand that sometimes people take whats known as "literary license" when describing themselves, in order to seem more impressive.
Ever flown through O'Hare airport? If so, do you know where the name comes from? It was named after Edward O'Hare, (aka "Butch") who was a Navy fighter pilot in WWII. He was killed in 1943, but not until after winning the Medal of Honor. Here's an interesting fact, which could be a key to his personality: His father was a Chicago lawyer who worked for (or with) Al Capone, until he decided to work against him. Brave move, but alas- it was one that the elder O'Hare paid for with his life.
And speaking of famous WWII fighter aces, RIP Thomas Lanphier, Jr. He is best known for being the guy who (helped) shoot down Admiral Yamamoto. For many years, Lanphier got all the credit, but now he's been downgraded to partial credit. He's dead, so I don't think he really minds it though.
And that's about that. Hope you enjoyed it. If so, feel free to drop me a note saying so!
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