All the People

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

Major Taylor

American cyclist; first African American cycling champion
Born
November 26th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
1932 94 years ago — 54 years old

An African American cyclist gained prominence in the early 20th century. Competed in various cycling events, achieving significant success. Won the world 50-mile track cycling championship in 1899, becoming the first African American to hold a world championship title in any sport. Faced racial discrimination throughout the career but persevered, securing victories across the United States and internationally. Taylor's achievements helped pave the way for future generations of athletes.

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Majrooh Sultanpuri

Indian poet and lyricist of Hindi cinema
Born
October 1st, 1919 107 years ago
Died
May 24th, 2000 26 years ago — 80 years old

An influential figure in Hindi cinema, contributed as a poet and songwriter. Began writing in the late 1940s and became a prominent lyricist in numerous films. Worked with top composers and contributed to the golden era of Bollywood music. Received recognition through several prestigious awards for the body of work in film music. Captured themes of love, longing, and social issues through evocative lyrics, establishing a lasting legacy in Indian music and poetry.

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Makarios III

Cypriot archbishop and politician
Born
August 13th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1977 49 years ago — 63 years old

An influential archbishop and politician, served as the first President of Cyprus from 1960 until his death in 1977. Instrumental in the fight for independence from British colonial rule and played a major role in the formation of the Republic of Cyprus. Promoted reconciliation among the island's Greek and Turkish communities while navigating political tensions. Advocated for a non-aligned foreign policy and was active in international diplomacy. His leadership saw significant political challenges, including intercommunal conflicts and the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus, which resulted in the division of the island.

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Makar Yekmalyan

Armenian composer, esteemed for choral works
Born
February 2nd, 1856 170 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1905 121 years ago — 49 years old

Born in 1856, a composer focused on choral music and influenced by Armenian folk traditions. Education at the Yerevan Church Choir School laid the foundation for a career emphasizing the revival of Armenian musical heritage. Composed various religious works, symphonies, and songs which contributed to the cultural landscape of Armenia. Active throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, emphasized the importance of Armenian spirituality and identity in music.

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Makbule Atadan

Turkish lawyer and politician
Born
1885 141 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1956 70 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in Turkish law and politics, Atadan contributed significantly to the early Republican era. She was one of the first female lawyers in Turkey, breaking gender barriers in a predominantly male profession. As a member of the parliament, she advocated for women's rights and reforms in the legal system. Atadan was active in promoting education and social welfare, emphasizing the importance of these areas for the development of society. Her efforts in politics and law marked a critical period for women's participation in Turkey's public life.

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Makhanlal Chaturvedi

Poet and journalist, notable playwright
Born
April 4th, 1889 137 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1968 58 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent Indian poet, playwright, and journalist, this individual significantly contributed to Hindi literature and the freedom movement. He served as the chief editor of various newspapers, influencing public opinion with his writings. The individual authored several plays and poems that showcased patriotism and social issues. In addition, this person established a strong literary presence, advocating for Hindi as a medium of communication during a period when regional languages were often overlooked.

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Makhaya Ntini

South African cricketer and fast bowler
Born
July 6th, 1977 49 years ago

A prominent cricketer from South Africa, excelled as a fast bowler. Made a significant impact in international cricket, playing for the national team from 1997 to 2011. Contributed to South Africa's success in several Test and One Day International matches. Played a critical role in the team's bowling attack, becoming the first black cricketer to achieve significant success in his country. Known for his athleticism and ability to swing the ball both ways.

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Maki Asakawa

Singer-songwriter and producer of Japan
Born
January 27th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
2010 16 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1942, this singer-songwriter and producer rose to prominence in the Japanese music scene. The musical style blended elements of folk, jazz, and pop, showcasing a unique voice and emotive lyrics. Over the years, the artist released multiple albums, gaining a loyal following. The works often reflected personal experiences and societal themes, resonating with audiences throughout Japan. Starting her career in the 1960s, she contributed to the popularization of Japanese folk music and engaged in various artistic collaborations. In addition to songwriting, the artist produced music for herself and others, influencing the contemporary music landscape.

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Makino Nobuaki

Japanese Foreign Minister and diplomat
Born
1861 165 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1949 77 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the 15th Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan. Played a significant role in Japanese diplomacy during a period marked by international tensions and events leading to World War II. Represented Japan in various international negotiations and emphasized the importance of diplomatic relations with other nations. Contributed to shaping foreign policy in Japan during the interwar years.

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Makinti Napanangka

Australian painter of Aboriginal art
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2011 15 years ago — 81 years old

An Australian painter specialized in Aboriginal art, contributing significantly to the art movement that highlights Indigenous culture. Paintings featured intricate dot work and vibrant colors, often depicting Dreamtime stories and the natural environment. Participated in numerous exhibitions, gaining recognition on both national and international stages. Her artworks are showcased in various prestigious collections, enhancing the visibility of Indigenous perspectives in contemporary art.

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Mako Iwamatsu

Japanese actor in 'The Sand Pebbles'
Born
December 10th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2006 20 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1933, this actor had a prominent career in film and television. Early work included performances in Japanese cinema before moving to the United States. Notably starred in the film 'The Sand Pebbles' alongside Steve McQueen, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Also appeared in popular TV series such as 'Hawaii Five-O' and 'M*A*S*H'. His contribution to the arts extended to voice work in animated features, lending his voice to characters in 'Avatar: The Last Airbender' and 'The Last Unicorn'.

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Makoto Hasebe

Japanese footballer, World Cup participant
Born
January 18th, 1984 42 years ago

A footballer played as a midfielder, primarily in the Bundesliga and the Japan national team. Made significant contributions during the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, representing Japan. Played for clubs such as Eintracht Frankfurt, winning the DFB-Pokal in 2018. Demonstrated versatility by functioning as a defensive midfielder and a center-back throughout a professional career that spanned over a decade.

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