All the People

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

John Whitgift

Archbishop and academic leader
Born
1530 496 years ago
Died
February 29th, 1604 422 years ago — 74 years old

Served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1583 to 1604. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Anglican Church during the Elizabethan era. Oversaw the religious policies that sought to unify Protestant factions within England and enforce adherence to the Book of Common Prayer. Engaged in theological debates with Puritans and defended the Church's practices against dissenters. Contributed to the educational landscape by founding Trinity College in Cambridge.

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John Whittingdale

English politician and Cabinet member
Born
October 16th, 1959 67 years ago

A prominent English politician, served as a Member of Parliament since 1992. Held multiple ministerial positions, including Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport from 2015 to 2016. Played a significant role in shaping policies related to culture, media, and sports in the UK. Instrumental in overseeing the BBC's charter and funding mechanisms during tenure in office. Engaged in various parliamentary committees and supported initiatives on digital communications and broadcasting.

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John Wilce

Football coach, physician, and player
Born
1888 138 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1963 63 years ago — 75 years old

Played college football at Ohio State University as a quarterback and later served as head coach from 1913 to 1920. Achieved considerable success as a coach, leading the team to several winning seasons and establishing a strong football program. Transitioned into a medical career, earning a medical degree and practicing as a physician while remaining involved in sports. Also contributed to the development of football tactics and training methods during his coaching tenure.

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John Wildman

English soldier and politician
Born
1621 405 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1693 333 years ago — 72 years old

Served as a soldier during the English Civil War, aligning with the Parliamentary forces. Later transitioned into politics, taking on the role of Postmaster General in the United Kingdom. Representation in Parliament included contributions to discussions on governance and post-war reconstruction. Played a pivotal role during a period of political instability.

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John Wilkes

Journalist and British politician
Born
October 17th, 1725 301 years ago
Died
1797 229 years ago — 72 years old

Active in the 18th century, contributed significantly to journalism and politics in England. Advocated for freedom of the press and civil liberties. Elected as a Member of Parliament for Middlesex multiple times, he became a prominent figure in opposition to the government. His controversial writings and public speeches led to several conflicts with authorities, earning imprisonment for seditious libel. His efforts played a critical role in shaping public opinion during his era.

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John Wilkes Booth

American actor and presidential assassin
Born
May 10th, 1838 188 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1865 161 years ago — 26 years old

An accomplished actor in the 19th century, gained fame through performances at various theaters, particularly noted for roles in Shakespearean plays. Booth was part of a well-known theatrical family and often appeared in productions such as 'Julius Caesar'. His notoriety increased following the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln on April 14, 1865, during a performance at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C. After the assassination, fled and was pursued widely, leading to a standoff at a Virginia barn where he was ultimately killed by Union soldiers.

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John Wilkins

Bishop and natural philosopher
Born
February 14th, 1614 412 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1672 353 years ago — 58 years old

An English bishop and academic, contributed significantly to theology and science. Served as Bishop of Chester and held prominent positions in the Royal Society, promoting scientific inquiry. Authored several works, including 'An Essay towards a Real Character and a Philosophical Language', which aimed to create a universal language to aid in scientific communication. Engaged in discussions on natural philosophy, cosmology, and the intersection of science and religion, influencing thinkers during the 17th century.

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John Willcock

Australian politician and Premier
Born
August 9th, 1879 147 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1956 70 years ago — 76 years old

Served as the 15th Premier of Western Australia from 1947 to 1953. Held the position during a period of significant post-war reconstruction and development. Undertook initiatives to improve infrastructure and education within the state. Succeeded in leading the Labor Party in Western Australia and contributed to various social policies during tenure.

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John William Dawson

Canadian geologist and academic
Born
October 13th, 1820 206 years ago
Died
1899 127 years ago — 79 years old

A significant figure in Canadian geology and paleontology, contributed extensively to the understanding of fossil plants. Held the position of Principal at McGill University in Montreal for over 25 years. Published numerous works including 'A Geological Map of Canada' and 'Fossil Plants of the Devonian'. Participated in the establishment of the Geological Survey of Canada, which facilitated important geological research in the country.

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John William Draper

Physician and chemist, photographer
Born
1811 215 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1882 144 years ago — 71 years old

A physician and chemist, contributed to early photography. Played a significant role in the development of daguerreotype, one of the first successful photographic processes. Conducted research in various scientific fields including chemistry and meteorology. Published numerous works including 'The History of the Conflict between Religion and Science', which explores the relationship between science and religion.

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John William Finn

American lieutenant, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
July 24th, 1909 117 years ago
Died
2010 16 years ago — 101 years old

Served in the United States Navy during World War II. Participated in the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, while stationed at Naval Air Station Kaneohe Bay. Displayed extraordinary heroism in defending the air station against enemy aircraft. Received the Medal of Honor for actions during the attack, demonstrating high levels of bravery and self-sacrifice.

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John William Kendrick

Engineer and businessman; railway expansion
Born
October 14th, 1853 173 years ago
Died
1924 102 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1853, significant contributions were made to the railroad industry in the United States. Served as a key engineering expert for railway corporations and facilitated the expansion of rail networks across various states. Established several successful businesses that focused on transportation and engineering solutions, playing a pivotal role in the modernization of rail travel. Involved in numerous projects that improved infrastructure and operational efficiency in the rail sector, significantly influencing the transportation landscape during that period.

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