All the People

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

Samuel Pierpont Langley

Physicist and astronomer, invented the radiometer
Born
August 22nd, 1834 191 years ago
Died
1906 120 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1834, significant contributions included studies in astronomy and physics. Developed a reputation for expertise in aerodynamics, particularly with his work on powered flight. Served as the director of the Smithsonian Institution from 1887 until death in 1906. His early experiments in aviation and the development of the Langley Aerodrome marked essential steps in the advancement of aeronautics. Conducted extensive research in optics and the behavior of solar radiation.

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Samuel Pisar

Polish-American lawyer and author
Born
March 18th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2015 10 years ago — 86 years old

Born in Poland, an early life was marked by the horrors of World War II, including imprisonment in Nazi concentration camps. After the war, resettlement in the United States occurred, leading to a legal education at Harvard Law School. A prominent lawyer, worked on international law and human rights. Authored several books, including a memoir detailing wartime experiences and advocacy for Holocaust survivors. Pisar became an influential figure in promoting human rights globally.

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Samuel Plimsoll

English merchant and politician advocating shipping safety
Born
February 10th, 1824 202 years ago
Died
1898 128 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1824, this English merchant and politician made significant contributions to maritime safety. Plimsoll advocated for safer shipping practices, culminating in the Plimsoll Line, a crucial safety marker on ships that indicates the maximum safe loading depth. His efforts followed numerous maritime disasters resulting from overloaded vessels and shaped legislative reforms in maritime law. Plimsoll became a Member of Parliament, using political influence to promote his commitments to both shipping safety and worker rights. His work led to the passing of the Merchant Shipping Act of 1876, establishing important safety regulations in the industry.

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Samuel Ramey

Opera singer with acclaimed roles
Born
March 28th, 1942 84 years ago

Born in 1942, this American opera singer gained recognition for a powerful baritone voice and extensive repertoire, particularly in the operas of Puccini, Verdi, and Mozart. Ramey performed leading roles in numerous international venues including the Metropolitan Opera and La Scala. His career highlights include performances in operas such as 'Don Giovanni' and 'Boris Godunov'. In addition to his operatic achievements, Ramey recorded several acclaimed albums and received various awards for his contributions to music, including Grammy Awards.

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Samuel R. Delany

Science fiction author and critic
Born
April 1st, 1942 84 years ago

An influential author and critic, associated with the science fiction genre. Published notable works including 'Dhalgren' and the 'Neveryon' series, exploring themes of sexuality, race, and identity. In addition to novels, contributed critical essays that analyzed the evolution of science fiction literature and its cultural significance. Served as a professor in creative writing programs, imparting knowledge to aspiring writers.

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Samuel Reshevsky

Chess Player and Author
Born
November 26th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1992 34 years ago — 81 years old

A Polish-American chess player and author, achievements included winning several U.S. Chess Championships and representing the United States in various international competitions. Reshevsky was considered one of the strongest chess players in the United States during the 20th century. He began competing in chess at a young age and gained prominence by defeating world-class players. He also contributed to chess literature through books and articles, educating aspiring players on strategies. Reshevsky sustained a long career, remaining active in chess tournaments for decades.

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Samuel Richardson

English author and painter
Born
1689 337 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1761 264 years ago — 72 years old

Contributed to the development of the novel as a literary form. Wrote three major novels, with 'Pamela' (1740) as the first success in English literature to employ letters as a narrative device. Explored themes of morality and virtue through character development. Created a unique style that influenced later writers.

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Samuel Rogers

English poet and art collector
Born
July 30th, 1763 262 years ago
Died
1855 171 years ago — 92 years old

Acclaimed as a prominent English poet and art collector during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Achieved notable success with the publication of the poem 'The Pleasures of Memory' in 1792, which established a lasting reputation. Engaged actively in the literary circles of his time, befriending influential figures like Wordsworth and Coleridge. Collected artworks from renowned artists, reflecting a deep appreciation for the arts. Contributed significantly to the fusion of literature and visual art, showcasing a commitment to cultural enrichment.

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Samuel Ruiz

Mexican bishop and social activist
Born
November 3rd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 87 years old

Served as a bishop in the Anglican Church of Mexico. Advocated for indigenous rights and social justice, focusing on the needs of marginalized communities. Played a significant role in peace negotiations during the Chiapas conflict, promoting dialogue between the government and indigenous groups. Established various programs aimed at improving education and healthcare in rural areas. Contributed to the development of liberation theology in the Latin American context.

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Samuel Sánchez

Spanish professional cyclist, Olympic gold medalist
Born
February 5th, 1978 48 years ago

A professional cyclist from Spain, achieved significant success in road racing. Competed for teams such as Euskaltel-Euskadi and BMC Racing. Secured a gold medal in the men’s road race at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Gained recognition for strong performances in Grand Tours, including multiple top-ten finishes in the Tour de France and Vuelta a España.

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Samuel Scheidt

German organist and composer of the Baroque
Born
November 3rd, 1587 438 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1653 373 years ago — 65 years old

Scheidt contributed significantly to the development of German organ music during the Baroque period. His works primarily involved compositions for keyboard instruments, including notable collections such as 'Tabulatura Nova.' Scheidt served as an organist in various churches and was influential in the musical education of future composers. His teaching and compositions helped shape the German organ tradition.

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Samuel Seabury

American bishop and church leader
Born
1729 297 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1796 230 years ago — 67 years old

Seabury served as the first Episcopal bishop in the United States. He played a key role in the establishment of the Episcopal Church after the American Revolution. Seabury sought to ensure the church's continuity and stability during a time of change by ordaining clergy and forming a jurisdiction independent from the Church of England. His theological and liturgical contributions helped shape the beliefs and practices of the Episcopal community in the United States. Seabury's efforts also included publishing works that articulated the position of the new church, influencing future generations of Episcopalians.

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