All the People

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

Peter Barlow

Mathematician and physicist, Barlow's wheel
Born
1776 250 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1862 164 years ago — 86 years old

Significant contributions to mathematics and physics occurred throughout the career. Developed Barlow's wheel, a device that demonstrated principles of rotary motion and was an important milestone in the study of mechanics. Authored several influential texts on mathematical analysis, including works on calculus and optics. Served as a professor at the Royal Military Academy, influencing future generations of engineers and scientists. His work laid foundational concepts still relevant in modern physics and engineering disciplines.

Continue Reading

Peter Barnes

English playwright and screenwriter
Born
January 10th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2004 21 years ago — 73 years old

A significant playwright and screenwriter, garnered recognition for addressing social issues and the human condition in works. Wrote plays such as 'The Ruling Class' and 'Red Noses', which explored complex themes through dark humor and satire. Contributed to screenwriting, with adaptations including the film version of 'The Ruling Class'. Had a career that spanned several decades, influencing British theatre and cinema.

Continue Reading

Peter Bartholomew

Military figure during the First Crusade
Born
1061 965 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1099 927 years ago — 38 years old

Peter Bartholomew served as a military leader during the First Crusade, participating in significant battles to reclaim Jerusalem. His prominent role in the siege of Antioch was marked by claims of divine visions that guided his actions. These visions included the discovery of the Holy Lance, believed to be the spear used to pierce the side of Jesus Christ, which rallied troops and influenced morale. Following the successful capture of Jerusalem in 1099, Bartholomew's contributions were acknowledged, although they also sparked controversy among his peers due to his prophetic assertions. His life ended during a subsequent military campaign, highlighting the perilous nature of the Crusades.

Continue Reading

Peter Beard

Photographer and author of 'End of the Game'
Born
January 22nd, 1938 88 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 82 years old

An Australian photographer and author, recognized for capturing the relationship between humankind and nature. Beard's photographic work often highlighted the beauty and fragility of African wildlife, particularly in Kenya. He produced several books that combined photography with his own writings, most notably 'End of the Game,' which addressed the challenges facing the African landscape and wildlife. Beard's unique style blended images with handwritten notes and drawings, giving a personal touch to his visual storytelling. His extensive body of work also includes collaborations with fashion magazines and significant contributions to conservation efforts.

Continue Reading

Peter Beardsley

English footballer and manager
Born
January 18th, 1961 65 years ago

A former footballer and manager, he had a distinguished career primarily with Newcastle United and the England national team. Played as a forward, making significant contributions in multiple domestic and international competitions. After retiring as a player, transitioned into management, including a stint as a coach with Newcastle United.

Continue Reading

Peter Beattie

Australian politician and Premier of Queensland
Born
November 18th, 1952 73 years ago

Served as the 36th Premier of Queensland from 1998 to 2007. Focused on economic development and health care during tenure. Prior to becoming Premier, held the position of Deputy Premier and held various roles in local and state government. Initiated significant infrastructure projects and oversaw major reforms in education and the health system. Following resignation, remained active in public life and participated in various community initiatives.

Continue Reading

Peter Behrens

Architect, designer of AEG turbine factory
Born
April 14th, 1868 158 years ago
Died
1940 86 years ago — 72 years old

Born in Germany in 1868, this architect was a pioneering figure in the development of modern industrial architecture. Best recognized for designing the AEG turbine factory in Berlin, the work exemplified the principles of functionality and aesthetic beauty in industrial buildings. Contributions also included furniture design and art direction, influencing the Bauhaus movement. His approach combined the use of new materials with an emphasis on simplicity and utility, which marked a significant departure from the ornate styles prevalent in previous architectural practices.

Continue Reading

Peter Benchley

American author of Jaws
Born
May 8th, 1940 86 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2006 20 years ago — 65 years old

An American author and screenwriter, notable for writing the thriller novel 'Jaws' published in 1974. The book depicts the story of a monstrous great white shark that terrorizes a beach town. The novel's immense popularity catapulted it to the top of bestseller lists and led to a major film adaptation directed by Steven Spielberg in 1975, which became a cultural sensation and established the summer blockbuster phenomenon. Benchley also wrote several other novels, including 'The Deep' and 'Beast', and served as a screenwriter for various movies. Beyond literature, Benchley became an advocate for ocean conservation.

Continue Reading

Peter Benenson

Human rights lawyer, founded Amnesty International
Born
July 31st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2005 21 years ago — 83 years old

A lawyer initiated the founding of Amnesty International in 1961 to advocate for human rights globally. The organization focused on preventing and addressing cases of unjust imprisonment and torture. Through commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, efforts contributed to the awareness of political prisoners and abuses. The organization's campaigns led to the release of numerous individuals and shifted perspectives on state-sponsored violence.

Continue Reading

Peter Berg

Director of 'Friday Night Lights'
Born
March 11th, 1964 62 years ago

An American director, producer, screenwriter, and actor. Achievements include creating the television series 'Friday Night Lights', which portrayed high school football culture in Texas. Directed films such as 'Lone Survivor' and 'Deepwater Horizon', both of which received critical attention. Involved in multiple projects as a producer and writer, contributing to film and television through his unique storytelling approach.

Continue Reading

Peter Bergman

Comedian, actor in soap operas
Born
November 29th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2012 14 years ago — 73 years old

An American comedian, actor, and screenwriter. Significant contributions to television include roles in daytime soap operas. Best recognized for portraying Jack Abbott on "The Young and the Restless" since 1989, contributing to the series' long-running success. Also part of the comedic ensemble in the show "The Bold and the Beautiful."

Continue Reading

Peter Berling

German actor and film producer
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2017 8 years ago — 83 years old

An actor, film producer, and writer engaged in the film industry for several decades. Contributed to multiple prominent films and television series, building a reputation within German cinema. Founded a production company that enabled various projects and collaborated with numerous filmmakers. Achieved recognition for performances in films and contributed to adaptations of literary works.

Continue Reading