All the People

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

John Hanning Speke

Explorer of Africa, discovered Lake Victoria
Born
May 4th, 1827 199 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1864 162 years ago — 37 years old

An English soldier and explorer contributed to the exploration of East Africa. Speke participated in several expeditions with the goal of discovering the source of the Nile River. In 1858, he reached Lake Victoria, which he identified as the source of the Nile. His work was significant in mapping the interior of Africa during a time of expanding European exploration. Speke's expeditions often faced challenges such as harsh landscapes and encounters with local populations. He published accounts of his journeys, detailing the geography and cultures encountered during the explorations.

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John Hans Krebs

American lawyer and politician
Born
December 17th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 10th, 2014 12 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1926, a prominent figure in American politics. Served as a member of the United States House of Representatives representing the 30th district of California from 1965 to 1970. Actively engaged in legislative processes and contributed to various committees during the tenure. Following congressional service, held several positions in government and private sectors, emphasizing legal and governmental issues. Later, returned to public service in various capacities.

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John Hargrave

English activist and author
Born
1894 132 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1982 43 years ago — 88 years old

Engaged in activism throughout the 20th century, wrote extensively on issues including social justice and political reform. Contributed to various publications, advocating for progressive ideals. Played a significant role in movements aiming to enhance civil rights and promote equality. His works reflect a commitment to voluntary service and community engagement, influencing discussions around reform in British society.

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John Harington

English courtier and author of poems
Born
1561 465 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1612 413 years ago — 51 years old

A courtier and author writing during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Harington served at the court of Queen Elizabeth I and was known for his satirical poetry and translations. He created the first flushing toilet in England, which he referred to as the 'Ajax' and published a notable work titled 'A New Discourse of a Stale Subject'. His literary contributions included poems and works that featured a blend of humor and social commentary.

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John Harle

English saxophonist and composer
Born
September 20th, 1956 70 years ago

A prominent saxophonist, composer, conductor, and producer, contributed significantly to contemporary music. Collaborated with various artists and orchestras, showcasing versatility across genres. Notably created works that blend classical and jazz elements, enhancing the recognition of the saxophone in both realms. Led innovative projects and performances, bringing attention to the instrument's capabilities. Served as a producer, fostering new talents and producing albums that celebrated diverse musical styles.

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John Harlin

Mountaineer and pilot, The Eiger direct route
Born
June 30th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1966 60 years ago — 30 years old

John Harlin was an American mountaineer and pilot who gained recognition for his climbing achievements. He was the first to complete the direct route on the north face of the Eiger in Switzerland in 1961. Harlin was also involved in numerous other significant ascents, contributing to the evolution of climbing techniques and safety. His background as a pilot complemented his mountaineering efforts, allowing him to approach remote mountains more effectively. Tragically, his life was cut short during a climbing expedition when a fall occurred while attempting the Eiger's north face.

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John Harrison

Carpenter and clock-maker, invented Marine chronometer
Born
March 24th, 1693 333 years ago
Died
1776 250 years ago — 83 years old

An English carpenter and clock-maker made significant advancements in horology. Developed the marine chronometer, a device that greatly improved navigation at sea by allowing sailors to determine their longitude. Spent several decades perfecting the design and construction of marine timekeepers, resulting in the H4 chronometer, which successfully demonstrated its accuracy during a transatlantic voyage. His contributions to timekeeping were crucial in solving the problem of navigation while at sea, transforming maritime travel and exploration.

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John Harsanyi

Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 29th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2000 26 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Hungary, an academic focused on game theory, utility, and social choice theory. Emigrated to the United States after World War II and continued work in economics. Received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1994 for contributions to analyzing cooperative games and bringing psychological insights into economic thinking.

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John Hart

10th Premier of South Australia
Born
February 25th, 1809 217 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1873 153 years ago — 63 years old

Served as the 10th Premier of South Australia from 1868 to 1870. Participated in significant political developments of the time, contributing to various reforms aimed at improving the governance of the state. Involved in the expansion of South Australian infrastructure and policies that addressed land and immigration. Helped set the groundwork for future leadership and governance in the region.

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John Hartford

American singer-songwriter and fiddler
Born
December 30th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2001 25 years ago — 64 years old

An influential figure in American folk music and bluegrass, this artist contributed significantly to the genre during the late 20th century. His talents as a singer-songwriter were showcased in hits like 'Gentle on My Mind,' which won multiple Grammy Awards. Additionally, expertise on the fiddle highlighted performances and recordings, blending traditional and contemporary styles. Throughout a career spanning decades, emphasis was placed on storytelling through music and the integration of various musical influences. This artist also made notable contributions to television through appearances on shows such as 'The Johnny Cash Show' and 'The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour.'

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John Hartle

English motorcycle racer
Born
December 22nd, 1933 92 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1968 58 years ago — 34 years old

A prominent motorcycle racer in the 1950s and 1960s, achieved significant success in various competitions. Competed in the MotoGP world championship and participated in the Isle of Man TT races. Demonstrated skill and determination on the racetrack, securing a reputation within the sport. Continued to engage with motorcycle racing even after retirement, contributing to the community.

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John Hartley

English tennis player with Championships titles
Born
January 9th, 1849 177 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1935 91 years ago — 86 years old

Competed in the early years of tennis, contributing to the development of the sport in England. Played primarily in the late 19th century and achieved success in several prestigious tournaments. Known for participation in the Wimbledon Championships from its inception. Part of the transition of tennis into a professional sport, influencing both playing styles and tournament structures.

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