All the People

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

Walter Ernsting

German science fiction author
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2005 21 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent German author focused on science fiction, contributed significantly to the genre both as an author and translator. Writings included notable works, originally published under the pseudonym Clark Darlton. Helped popularize science fiction in the German-speaking world, influencing a generation of readers and writers. Translated various works from English to German, making many significant science fiction stories accessible to the German audience. Continued to publish works until his death in 2005.

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Walter E. Rollins

American songwriter and musician
Born
September 15th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1973 53 years ago — 67 years old

Contributed significantly to American popular music during the early to mid-20th century. Collaborated with various artists and wrote numerous songs that became standards in the music industry. Achieved recognition for the song 'Here Comes Peter Cottontail,' which became a holiday classic. Worked alongside prominent figures in the music scene, influencing the development of popular and children's music. His songwriting has continued to be celebrated in various media and remains part of American musical heritage.

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Walter E. Williams

American economist and academic leader
Born
March 31st, 1936 90 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 84 years old

An American economist and academic, contributions centered on economics, liberty, and public policy. Served as a professor of economics at George Mason University and authored several influential books, including 'Race and Economics' and 'More Liberty, Less Government'. Provided commentary through columns published in various media outlets, effectively reaching a wider audience. Engaged in debates regarding economic policies and principles, advocating for freedom and personal responsibility.

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Walter Farley

Author of The Black Stallion series
Born
June 26th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1989 36 years ago — 67 years old

An American author, Farley gained recognition through the creation of The Black Stallion series, which captivated young readers with its tales of adventure and the bond between a boy and a wild horse. The first book, published in 1941, became a classic and laid the groundwork for a series that included numerous sequels and adaptations. Farley's work inspired a generation of animal lovers and equestrians, alongside the movie adaptations of his books, which further popularized the story. Beyond The Black Stallion, Farley wrote several other novels and contributed to the field of children's literature, emphasizing themes of friendship and perseverance.

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Walter Frederick Morrison

Inventor of the Frisbee
Born
January 23rd, 1920 106 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2010 16 years ago — 90 years old

An American businessman invented the flying disc toy known as the Frisbee in the 1940s. Initially created as a cake pan, it became popular when its design was refined for recreational use. The toy gained widespread popularity in the 1960s, leading to the establishment of the Frisbee brand and various games associated with it. Morrison's invention has become a staple of outdoor play and has inspired numerous competitions and events around the world. The manufacturing and marketing of the Frisbee transformed the toy industry and created a new category of play.

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Walter Gargano

Professional footballer in Uruguay
Born
July 23rd, 1984 41 years ago

Born in 1984, a professional footballer specialized in midfield roles. Played prominently in European leagues, particularly with Napoli in Serie A, making over 190 appearances. Contributed to Napoli's Coppa Italia victory in 2012. Later played for various clubs, including a significant stint at Peñarol in Uruguay, showcasing talent in domestic and international competitions.

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Walter Gerlach

German physicist and academic
Born
August 1st, 1889 136 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1979 46 years ago — 90 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of physics, particularly in quantum mechanics and atomic structure. Developed the Stern-Gerlach experiment alongside Otto Stern, which demonstrated the quantization of angular momentum. Held academic positions at various universities and influenced the education of future physicists through teaching and research.

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Walter Gieseking

Pianist and composer, known for recordings
Born
November 5th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1956 69 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1895, a French-German pianist and composer gained recognition for exceptional interpretations of classical repertoire. Studied at multiple institutions, including the Frankfurt Conservatory, under prominent teachers. Developed a unique technique characterized by clarity and a distinct touch. Became particularly noted for recordings of works by composers such as Debussy, Ravel, and Beethoven. Collaborated with major orchestras and performed in prestigious venues worldwide. Involved in various performances during the early to mid-20th century, contributing to the music scene in both concert and recording formats. Held a respected position in the classical music community until his death in 1956.

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Walter Gilbert

Chemical physicist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
March 21st, 1932 94 years ago

Significant contributions were made to the field of molecular biology. Pioneered techniques in DNA sequencing. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1980 for work on the structure of genes. Served on the faculty at Harvard University, where extensive research was conducted in genetics and molecular biology.

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Walter Gretzky

Ice hockey coach and author
Born
October 8th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 83 years old

Served as a coach and mentor in ice hockey, providing guidance to young players and contributing to the sport through his extensive knowledge and experience. Authored several books sharing insights about the game and personal experiences. Played a significant role in developing future generations of hockey talent in Canada.

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Walter Gropius

Architect, designed John F. Kennedy Building
Born
May 18th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1969 56 years ago — 86 years old

A leading architect of the 20th century, contributed significantly to modern architecture as the founder of the Bauhaus school in Germany. Emphasized functional design and the integration of art with technology. Designed multiple iconic buildings including the John F. Kennedy Federal Building in Boston and the Werkbund Exhibition in 1914. Advocated for the unity of art and industrial design, influencing generations of architects and designers.

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Walter Hadlee

New Zealand cricket captain and player
Born
June 4th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
September 29th, 2006 19 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent cricketer, Hadlee played for New Zealand from 1937 to 1951. He served as captain for a significant part of his career and was an accomplished all-rounder. Notable for his outstanding bowling skills, he became one of the first New Zealanders to make a mark in international cricket. After retiring, he contributed to the sport as a selector and coach. His sons also pursued professional cricket, furthering the Hadlee legacy in the sport.

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