All the People

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

Rokia Traoré

Malian singer and cultural ambassador
Born
January 24th, 1974 52 years ago

Born in Mali, a singer-songwriter gained recognition for blending traditional Malian music with modern influences. Traoré's music features elements of folk, blues, and rock, showcasing rich storytelling traditions. Albums such as 'Bowmboi' and 'Né So' received critical acclaim, reflecting her distinct artistic voice and deep cultural roots. As a cultural ambassador, she has espoused African heritage and addressed social issues through her music, performing globally and collaborating with various artists. Her contributions to music have been acknowledged through various awards, positioning her as a pivotal figure in world music.

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Rokurō Naya

Voice actor known for anime roles
Born
October 20th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 82 years old

Born in Japan, developed a career as a voice actor with a focus on anime and dubbing. Provided the voice for various iconic characters in animated series and films. Contributed to the Japanese entertainment industry and gained recognition for performances in works such as 'Astro Boy' and 'Dragon Ball'.

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Rokusuke Ei

Japanese composer and author of songs
Born
April 10th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1933, this individual contributed significantly to Japanese music and literature. A prominent composer in the 20th century, worked on numerous works that blended traditional influences with contemporary styles. Authored several popular songs that resonated with the public and reflected social issues. Engaged in various artistic ventures throughout the career, impacting both the music and literary landscapes.

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Roky Erickson

Singer-songwriter and musician
Born
July 15th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 72 years old

Active in the music scene from the 1960s, significant contributions included founding the psychedelic rock band 13th Floor Elevators. Helped define the genre with the hit song "You're Gonna Miss Me." After a period of mental health struggles, continued to create solo work that explored themes of horror and existentialism. Released several albums, including 'The Evil One' and 'True Love Cast Out All Evil,' showcasing a unique blend of rock, punk, and gothic influences. Recognized for blending personal experiences and storytelling in music.

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Roland

Frankish military leader at Roncevaux
Died
August 15th, 778 1247 years ago — None years old

Served as a military leader during the reign of Charlemagne, notably led the rear guard of the Frankish army during the Battle of Roncevaux Pass in 778. This battle was portrayed in the epic poem 'The Song of Roland', which details his heroism and sacrifice in combat against the Basques. His actions contributed to the preservation of the Frankish empire in the face of emerging threats.

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Roland Arnall

U.S. Ambassador to the Netherlands
Born
March 29th, 1939 87 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2008 18 years ago — 68 years old

A French-American businessman and diplomat served as the 63rd United States Ambassador to the Netherlands. Held the ambassadorial position from 2006 until 2008. Involved in various business activities, including founding and managing lending services. Participated in numerous philanthropic endeavors and advocated for housing policy reforms areas related to home ownership.

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Roland Barthes

French linguist and literary theorist
Born
November 12th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1980 46 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent figure in literary theory and semiotics, contributed significantly to the understanding of texts and interpretation. Explored various areas including structuralism, mythology, and narrative theory. Authored several influential works that shaped literary criticism, particularly focusing on the relation between language and meaning. His ideas in 'Mythologies' and 'S/Z' interrogated the complexities of representation in culture, critique, and sign systems, establishing a foundational perspective in post-structuralist thought.

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Roland Burris

Attorney General of Illinois
Born
August 3rd, 1937 88 years ago

Served as the 39th Attorney General of Illinois from 1991 to 1995. Prior to that, held multiple positions in the state government, including Chairman of the Illinois State Lottery. Elected to the U.S. Senate in 2008, becoming the first African American senator from Illinois. His term in the Senate lasted until January 2010. In addition to practicing law, engaged in various community service initiatives.

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Roland Charles Wagner

French author and translator
Born
1960 66 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 52 years old

An author and translator contributed significantly to the French literary scene. Engaged in science fiction and fantasy genres, produced several novels, short stories, and translations that enriched the French literary landscape. A prominent figure in the 1980s and 1990s, collaborated with various literary magazines and participated in literary festivals, influencing the evolution of these genres in France. The literary work showcased a deep understanding of speculative fiction, with themes often exploring societal issues through imaginative narratives.

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Roland de la Poype

French pilot and soldier in WWII
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old

Served as a pilot and soldier during World War II, achieving recognition for flying missions as part of the Free French Forces. Participated in significant aerial operations and demonstrated bravery in combat situations. After the war, continued to contribute to aviation, particularly in the development of fighter aircraft. Later, became involved in various commemorative activities related to the French military and aviation history.

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Roland Duchâtelet

Businessman and politician from Belgium
Born
November 14th, 1946 79 years ago

Engaged in business ventures in the telecommunications sector, played a significant role in the Belgian political landscape. Served as a member of the Parliament for the Liberal Reformist Party. Owned and managed various football clubs, including Sint-Truiden and Charlton Athletic. Focused on sports management and club development, particularly in promoting youth academies.

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Rolande Falcinelli

French organist and composer
Born
February 18th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 86 years old

An accomplished organist, pianist, composer, and pedagogue, contributions spanned performance and education. Served as a professor at the Conservatoire de Paris, influencing generations of musicians. Composed numerous works for organ and piano, blending traditional and contemporary styles. Involved in promoting organ music and enhancing the repertoire within the classical music community.

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