All the People

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

John VIII Palaiologos

Byzantine emperor during the fall
Born
1390 636 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1448 578 years ago — 58 years old

Reign spanned from 1425 to 1448 as the last Byzantine emperor before the fall of Constantinople. Focused on uniting Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches to gain support against the Ottoman Empire. Faced numerous challenges, including financial difficulties and military threats. Attempted to secure aid from Western Europe, but responses were limited. Died in 1448, just before the city fell to the Ottomans.

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John VII Palaiologos

Byzantine Emperor with limited reign
Born
1370 656 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1408 618 years ago — 38 years old

Ruled as Byzantine Emperor from 1390 to 1408. His reign was marked by a struggle to maintain the weakening Byzantine Empire amid external threats. Formed an alliance with the Ottoman Turks to secure support against rival factions. His reign saw continued religious tension and efforts at restoring the Orthodox Church's influence. John VII faced challenges such as economic difficulties and territorial losses, leading to a limited impact on the empire's fortunes.

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John VI Kantakouzenos

Byzantine emperor and historian
Born
1292 734 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1383 643 years ago — 91 years old

Served as Byzantine emperor from 1347 to 1354, after initially holding the title of co-emperor. Received significant support from various factions during his reign, including the nobility and ecclesiastical authorities. Transitioned to a monastic life following abdication and became a prominent historian, detailing the history of his time, especially the events leading to the Fall of Constantinople. His writings provide valuable insights into the political and social landscape of the Byzantine Empire during its decline.

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John Vincent Atanasoff

Physicist and inventor of computing
Born
1903 123 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1995 31 years ago — 92 years old

An American physicist and inventor developed the Atanasoff-Berry computer, which is recognized as one of the first electronic computers. This pioneering work laid the foundation for modern computing technology. The design introduced the concepts of binary numbers and electronic computation, significantly influencing future computer development. Atanasoff's contributions to electronic computing occurred during the late 1930s and early 1940s at Iowa State College, where collaboration with graduate student Clifford Berry led to the completion of the device.

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John von Neumann

Mathematician and physicist, game theory
Born
December 28th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1957 69 years ago — 53 years old

A Hungarian-American mathematician and physicist, contributions spanned various fields, including mathematics, physics, computer science, and economics. Developed game theory, providing a framework for analyzing competitive situations. Contributed to the creation of the first electronic computer, ENIAC, and advanced the field of quantum mechanics. Helped develop the Manhattan Project during World War II, which led to the atomic bomb. Worked on several mathematical theories, including functional analysis and set theory.

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John V Palaiologos

Byzantine Emperor during decline
Born
June 18th, 1332 694 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1391 635 years ago — 58 years old

Ruled as Byzantine emperor from 1341 to 1376 and again from 1379 until death in 1391. Ascended to the throne as a minor, leading to regencies and internal conflicts. His reign was marked by the increasing territorial losses of the Byzantine Empire to the Ottomans and internal strife from the Palaiologos dynasty. Managed to restore some degree of stability in the later years but faced the ongoing decline of imperial power. Further alliances were sought with the West to garner military support against advancing enemies, including a notable appeal for aid from the Catholic Church.

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John Vukovich

Baseball player and coach for Phillies
Born
1947 79 years ago
Died
March 8th, 2007 19 years ago — 60 years old

Played Major League Baseball primarily as an infielder for the Philadelphia Phillies. Vukovich's playing career spanned from 1970 to 1978, where he became known for his defensive skills. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into coaching, contributing significantly to the Phillies' organization, including serving as a coach and minor league manager. His coaching roles included time in various levels of the Phillies' minor league system. Vukovich also held a position with the major league team, showcasing his expertise in player development and guidance.

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John Waite

Cricketer with South African national team
Born
January 19th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 81 years old

This individual played as a right-handed batsman and a right-arm medium-fast bowler for the South African national cricket team. Represented South Africa in 16 Test matches from 1952 to 1957. Contributed to the team's efforts during a time of international cricketing challenges. Featured prominently in the domestic circuit as well, playing for teams such as Western Province and Transvaal.

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John Wakeham

Leader of the House of Lords
Born
June 22nd, 1932 94 years ago

Baron Wakeham served as a prominent English businessman and politician. A member of the Conservative Party, held various leadership roles within the party and was appointed Leader of the House of Lords. Instrumental in legislative processes and contributed to governmental policy discussions during tenure. Wakeham also held positions in multiple government departments, shaping important regulations and laws during his political career.

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John Walker

New Zealand runner and politician
Born
January 12th, 1952 74 years ago

Carrer included achievements in athletics as a middle-distance runner and roles in New Zealand politics. Competed in the 1976 Olympic Games, winning the gold medal in the 1500 meters. Held a prominent position in the New Zealand House of Representatives, contributing to various policy discussions. Engaged in sports administration after retiring from competitive running, promoting athletics in New Zealand.

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John Walker Lindh

American Taliban member
Born
February 9th, 1981 45 years ago

Born in 1981, this individual gained international attention when captured during the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan in 2001. Previously, engaged with the Taliban and fought alongside them against U.S. forces. His case raised significant legal and ethical discussions regarding the treatment of combatants and citizens involved in terrorism. In 2002, sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to supporting the Taliban.

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John Wall

Professional basketball player, NBA All-Star
Born
September 6th, 1990 36 years ago

Drafted first overall in the 2010 NBA Draft, played for the Washington Wizards from 2010 to 2020. Led the team to multiple playoff appearances and earned an NBA All-Star selection in 2015. Known for exceptional speed and playmaking skills, also represented the United States in international competitions.

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