All the People

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

Maria Gaetana Agnesi

Mathematician and philosopher, wrote 'Analytical Institutions'
Born
May 16th, 1718 308 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1799 227 years ago — 80 years old

An Italian mathematician and philosopher contributed significantly to mathematics and philosophy during the 18th century. Renowned for writing 'Analytical Institutions', which focused on calculus and introduced the concept of the witch of Agnesi. Also served as a professor at the Bologna University. Her work bridged the gap between geometry and analysis, and she was one of the first women to gain recognition in a male-dominated field. Agnesi’s contributions included advancements in the study of differential equations and functions, further enriching the mathematical discourse of her time. In her later years, she dedicated herself to charitable works and education.

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Maria Georgina Grey

Educator, founder of Girls' Day School Trust
Born
1816 210 years ago
Died
September 19th, 1906 120 years ago — 90 years old

An English educator focused on advancing women's education, established the Girls' Day School Trust in 1872. This organization aimed to provide high-quality education for girls in England. Contributions included the development of curricula that emphasized both academic excellence and moral education, reflecting the values of the time. The trust grew significantly over the years, creating numerous schools across the country. Grey also served in various educational committees and wrote extensively on the subject of women's education, advocating for better opportunities for girls in the education system.

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Maria Goeppert Mayer

Physicist, Nobel Prize winner in Physics
Born
June 28th, 1906 120 years ago
Died
1972 54 years ago — 66 years old

A German-American physicist contributed significantly to the understanding of nuclear structure. Developed the shell model of the nucleus, which describes the arrangement of protons and neutrons. Worked at several institutions including Columbia University and the University of California, San Diego. Shared the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1963 with J. Hans D. Jensen and Eugene Wigner for achievements in the field. Focused research on the behavior of nuclear particles and interactions.

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Maria Goeppert-Mayer

Nobel-winning physicist specializing in nuclear structure
Born
1906 120 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1972 54 years ago — 66 years old

An accomplished physicist and academic, contributions to the field of nuclear structure led to a Nobel Prize in Physics in 1963. Worked on the development of the shell model of the nucleus, which provided significant insights into the arrangement of protons and neutrons in an atomic nucleus. Taught at several prestigious institutions, including the University of California, San Diego, and played a pivotal role in advancing knowledge in theoretical physics.

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Maria Goretti

Italian martyr and saint
Born
October 16th, 1890 136 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1902 124 years ago — 11 years old

Born in Italy in 1890, a young girl became a symbol of purity and forgiveness after being murdered at the age of 11. The tragic events surrounding her life led to her canonization by the Catholic Church. She was acknowledged as a martyr, with her story emphasizing the themes of mercy and faith. The widespread devotion to her led to her becoming a saint, and her feast day is celebrated annually on July 6. Her legacy includes numerous shrines, religious artworks, and a continuous influence on the Catholic faithful, particularly regarding the virtues of chastity and forgiveness.

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Maria Gorokhovskaya

Gymnast and Olympic gold medalist
Born
October 17th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
2001 25 years ago — 80 years old

Competitor in artistic gymnastics, participated in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, achieving remarkable success. Secured multiple medals at international competitions, showcasing exceptional talent. Transitioned to judging and coaching, contributing to the development of gymnastics in Israel after immigrating from Russia.

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Maria Grazia Cucinotta

Italian actress and producer (The Postman)
Born
July 27th, 1968 58 years ago

An Italian actress and producer, celebrated for her performances in film and television. Gained significant recognition for the role in the film 'Il Postino', which contributed to international acclaim. In addition to acting, produced several films, showcasing versatility in the industry. Worked in various Italian television series and movies throughout the career, becoming a prominent figure in Italian cinema.

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Maria Gripe

Swedish author and children's book writer
Born
July 25th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2007 19 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed significantly to children's literature. Authored numerous books that often featured themes of adventure and fantasy. Works included collaborations with illustrators that enhanced the storytelling experience. Gripe's narratives often dealt with complex emotions and existential questions, appealing to both children and adults. Her storytelling style blended realism with elements of myth, making stories relatable yet imaginative. Gripe received several awards recognizing her contributions to literature, including the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award.

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Mariah Carey

Singer-songwriter and actress
Born
March 27th, 1969 57 years ago

Born in 1969, a successful singer-songwriter, producer, and actress. Debuted in 1990 with a self-titled album, which included the hit single 'Vision of Love'. Achieved remarkable success in pop and R&B music, with numerous chart-topping singles. Notable for a five-octave vocal range and signature whistle register. Also ventured into acting, starring in films such as 'Precious' and 'The Butler'. Received multiple awards, including five Grammy Awards.

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Maria Hjorth

Professional golfer with major tournament wins
Born
October 15th, 1973 53 years ago

Competed on the Ladies European Tour and the LPGA Tour. Achieved ten professional wins, which include three tournament victories on the LPGA Tour. Notable for winning the 2005 Swedish Open. Participated in international competitions representing Sweden, contributing to the country's presence in women's golf.

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Maria Höfl-Riesch

Alpine skier with Olympic medals
Born
November 24th, 1984 41 years ago

Competed in alpine skiing, specializing in the downhill and super-G events. Achieved significant success in both the Winter Olympics and World Championships. Won three Olympic gold medals and one silver medal across two Olympic Games. Dominated the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup, securing the overall title in 2011. Retired from competitive skiing in 2015.

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Maria II

Portuguese queen and regent
Born
1819 207 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1853 172 years ago — 34 years old

Ascended to the throne at a young age amidst political turmoil. Reigned twice, first from 1826 to 1828 and then from 1834 until death in 1853. Instrumental in the establishment of constitutional monarchy in Portugal. Advocated for reforms in education and healthcare during her reign. Oversaw the stabilization of the nation after a period of civil strife.

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