All the People

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

Abdullah I

King of Jordan
Born
1882 143 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1951 73 years ago — 69 years old

Became the first king of Transjordan in 1921 and led the country through its early years of statehood. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the modern state of Jordan during a time of regional turmoil. Negotiated with various powers for the economic and political stability of the kingdom. Assassinated in 1951, marking the end of his reign and a significant moment in Jordanian history.

Continue Reading

Abdullah ibn Muhammad al-Umawi

Spanish emir during the 9th century
Died
October 15th, 912 1112 years ago — None years old

Served as emir of Córdoba from 888 until death in 912. Oversaw a period of stability and prosperity during the Umayyad Caliphate in Al-Andalus. Managed to bolster the economy and cultural richness of the region through various administrative reforms and support of the arts and sciences. Engaged in diplomatic relations with neighboring states, enhancing both political and cultural exchanges across the Mediterranean.

Continue Reading

Abdullah Ibrahim

South African pianist and composer
Born
October 9th, 1934 90 years ago

Born in 1934, a prominent South African pianist and composer contributed significantly to jazz music. He created a unique style that blended African music traditions with jazz elements. Formed the influential band The Abdullah Ibrahim Trio and gained international recognition. Moved to the United States in the 1960s, where collaborations with various esteemed musicians occurred. The album 'African Marketplace' stands out as one of the most celebrated works, showcasing rich melodies and rhythms. A lifelong dedication to music and a commitment to cultural heritage marked an extensive career that spanned decades, influencing many artists.

Continue Reading

Abdullah III Al-Salim Al-Sabah

Kuwaiti ruler during independence era
Born
1895 130 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1965 59 years ago — 70 years old

Ruled Kuwait from 1950 until death in 1965. Oversaw the country's transition to independence from Britain in 1961. Implemented numerous modernizations and development programs to improve the nation's infrastructure. Strengthened Kuwait's international relations during a crucial period in Middle Eastern history.

Continue Reading

Abdullah II of Jordan

King of Jordan and military leader
Born
January 30th, 1962 63 years ago

Assumed the throne in 1999 following the death of the father. Focused on political reforms and economic modernization while maintaining a stable monarchy. Engaged in diplomatic efforts to address regional conflicts and foster peace in the Middle East. Instrumental in establishing Jordan as a key ally of the United States and a partner in various international coalitions. Strengthened the role of the military in national security and regional stability.

Continue Reading

Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed

Somali President and politician
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2012 13 years ago — 78 years old

Served as President of Somalia from 2004 to 2008, leading the Transitional Federal Government during a period of political instability. Held the position of the military leader of the Somali National Alliance and played a significant role in the civil war. Worked towards establishing a federal government and promoting peace in the region.

Continue Reading

Abdullah Öcalan

Turkish political activist and leader
Born
April 4th, 1948 77 years ago

A prominent political figure, played a key role in the founding of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) in 1978. Focused on advocating for Kurdish rights in Turkey, leading actions and discussions aimed at political autonomy and cultural recognition. Arrested in 1999 and sentenced to life imprisonment, continued to influence Kurdish political movements from prison through writings and statements. Recognized as a central figure in the ongoing discussions regarding Kurdish issues in Turkey.

Continue Reading

Abdullah of Saudi Arabia

Saudi King and influential monarch
Born
August 1st, 1924 100 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2015 10 years ago — 90 years old

Ascended to the throne in 2005 following the death of King Fahd. Focused on modernizing Saudi Arabia while maintaining traditional practices. Implemented various economic and social reforms, including efforts to diversify the national economy away from oil dependence. Promoted women's rights by allowing them to drive and participate in the workforce. Played a pivotal role in strengthening relations with Western countries and addressing regional conflicts, particularly in relation to Syria and Yemen. Died on January 23, 2015.

Continue Reading

Abdullah Yusuf Ali

Scholar and translator of the Quran
Born
April 14th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1953 71 years ago — 81 years old

Born in India, played a significant role in translating the Quran into English. Studied at Aligarh Muslim University and completed a degree in Arabic and Persian. Emigrated to England, where he engaged in scholarly work and Islamic studies. Published a well-regarded English translation of the Quran, which included extensive commentary. The translation became one of the most popular English versions, widely used in Islamic educational institutions.

Continue Reading

Abdulla Yameen

Maldivian politician, 6th President of Maldives
Born
May 21st, 1959 65 years ago

Elected as the 6th President of the Maldives, served from November 2013 to February 2018. Oversaw significant political events and changes during the presidency, including attempts to influence the judiciary and media. Faced political opposition and allegations of corruption while in office. Yameen's administration emphasized development initiatives, particularly in tourism and infrastructure.

Continue Reading

Abdul Malek Ukil

Bangladeshi lawyer and politician
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1987 37 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent figure in the legal and political landscape, dedicated significant efforts towards the development of Bangladesh's legal framework. Served in various capacities, contributing to the formation and establishment of legal institutions. Played a vital role in advocating for the rule of law and justice in post-independence Bangladesh, ensuring the legal system addressed the needs of the populace. Engaged actively in political movements, focusing on the rights and representation of the people. His work laid foundational elements for subsequent legal reforms in the country.

Continue Reading

Abdülmecid I

Ottoman Sultan and reform advocate
Born
1823 202 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1861 163 years ago — 38 years old

Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1839 until death in 1861. Initiated significant reforms known as the Tanzimat aimed at modernizing the empire's administration and military. Implemented changes that promoted western-style legal systems and education. Championed the arts, leading to the establishment of new schools and the encouragement of local artists. Granted a constitution in 1856, marking the first step towards constitutional monarchy in the empire.

Continue Reading