All the People

If you just want to see the people in our database you can browse them here.

Don Bradman

Cricketer; world record batting average holder
Born
August 27th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2001 25 years ago — 92 years old

One of the greatest cricketers in history, this athlete represented Australia in international cricket from 1928 to 1948. Achieving an extraordinary batting average of 99.94, the highest in Test match cricket, earned lifelong recognition and admiration. This player was a key figure in the Australian cricket team during the interwar period and the immediate post-war era. Alongside numerous records, this cricketer contributed significantly to the sport's popularity in Australia. His exceptional skill, especially in stroke play, and strategic batting approach set new standards in cricket.

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Don Bragg

American pole vaulter, Olympic medalist
Born
May 15th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 84 years old

An accomplished pole vaulter, achieved significant success in the 1950s and 1960s. Won the gold medal in pole vaulting at the 1960 Rome Olympics. Set multiple American records during a prominent athletic career, contributing to the rise of the pole vaulting discipline. Competed for top collegiate teams and was also a member of the United States national team.

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Don Brewer

Drummer and singer-songwriter for Grand Funk Railroad
Born
September 3rd, 1948 77 years ago

A prominent drummer and singer-songwriter emerged in the late 1960s. Joined the rock band Grand Funk Railroad, serving as a key member throughout its success. Contributed to notable albums and songs, including 'We're an American Band', which achieved commercial acclaim. The band became known for its energetic performances and chart-topping hits during the 1970s. Engaged in various musical projects after the band, reflecting a continued presence in rock music.

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Don Budge

Tennis player and coach, Grand Slam winner
Born
June 13th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2000 26 years ago — 84 years old

An American tennis player achieved the first Grand Slam in 1938, winning all four major championships in a single calendar year. Budge secured victories at the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and the U.S. Open. His innovative playstyle and powerful two-handed backhand revolutionized the game. Post-retirement, Budge contributed to tennis as a coach and served as a spokesperson for the sport, promoting its growth. He also played a significant role in the establishment of tennis as a professional career.

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Don Buford

Baseball player and coach
Born
February 2nd, 1937 89 years ago

A professional baseball player and coach, played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball. Career spanned from 1961 to 1972, with significant contributions to the Chicago White Sox and Baltimore Orioles. Played in the 1966 World Series with the Orioles, contributing to their championship title. Transitioned into a coaching role after retirement, influencing the game further through various coaching positions.

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Don Byas

Jazz saxophonist and educator in bebop
Born
October 21st, 1912 113 years ago
Died
1972 54 years ago — 60 years old

Significant contributions to the development of bebop characterized the career of this saxophonist. Born in 1912 in the United States, early work included playing with jazz bands in the 1930s. Collaborated with notable musicians such as Thelonious Monk and Dizzy Gillespie. Served as an influential educator, imparting knowledge to upcoming generations of jazz musicians. Resided in Europe for many years, continuing to work and influence the jazz scene.

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Don Byron

Clarinet player and composer in jazz
Born
November 8th, 1958 67 years ago

A clarinet player and composer, contributed significantly to the jazz genre. Studied at the State University of New York at Purchase and the Manhattan School of Music. Released several albums, blending traditional jazz with avant-garde elements. Collaborated with various artists across genres, bringing a unique perspective to clarinet performance. Contributed to film scores and theatrical productions, showcasing versatility in composition. Active in educating future musicians through workshops and performances.

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Don Chaney

Basketball player and coach; NBA Champion
Born
March 22nd, 1946 80 years ago

A basketball player and coach, he played as a shooting guard in the NBA. His playing career spanned from 1968 to 1981, during which he played for several teams including the Boston Celtics, achieving an NBA Championship in 1974. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into coaching, leading multiple teams in the NBA and serving as an assistant coach as well. His coaching career included stints with the Houston Rockets and the Boston Celtics, contributing to the development of players and strategies.

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Don Cherry

Ice hockey coach and sportscaster
Born
February 5th, 1934 92 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1995 30 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1934, this Canadian ice hockey player transitioned to coaching and sportscasting after a brief professional playing career. Coaching the Boston Bruins in the 1970s, he led the team to a Stanley Cup Finals appearance in 1974. He gained widespread recognition as a commentator and analyst on Hockey Night in Canada, known for his colorful personality and strong opinions about the game. He hosted the segment 'Coach's Corner,' which became a staple of Canadian sports broadcasting and featured discussions on hockey topics and player behavior. Throughout his career, he received several accolades, including induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame as a builder, signifying his contributions to the sport.

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Don Chuy

American football player, two-time Pro Bowler
Born
July 20th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1941, a professional American football player excelled as an offensive lineman in the National Football League. Played primarily for the Cleveland Browns, contributing to the team's success during the 1960s. Displayed exceptional skills that led to selection as a two-time Pro Bowler. After retirement, involvement in coaching and mentoring young athletes continued.

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Don Cornelius

Television host of Soul Train
Born
September 27th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
February 1st, 2012 14 years ago — 75 years old

Hosted and produced the television program Soul Train, which debuted in 1971 and became a hallmark of African American culture and music. The show featured performances by many popular artists and helped to popularize soul, funk, and hip-hop music. Served as an influential figure in television for over three decades, shaping the representation of Black artists and culture on mainstream media. Expanded the brand to include the Soul Train Music Awards, celebrating achievements in the music industry.

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Don Cornell

American Singer with chart-topping hits
Born
April 21st, 1919 107 years ago
Died
2004 22 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1919, a prominent American singer recognized for a successful career in pop music during the mid-20th century. Gained popularity for his smooth vocal style and romantic ballads. Rose to fame in the 1940s and 1950s, achieving numerous hits on the Billboard charts. Notable for the song 'I'll Be Home' which became a significant pop standard. Collaborated with various orchestras and recorded albums that contributed to a lasting musical legacy.

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