All the People

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

W. G. G. Duncan Smith

English captain and pilot
Born
May 28th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a captain in the Royal Air Force during World War II. Piloted several notable missions, including operations in the North African campaign. Post-war, contributed to civil aviation efforts, playing a key role in promoting air safety and advancements in navigation technology. Also engaged in maritime activities, further establishing expertise in aviation and seafaring.

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W. G. Grace

Cricketer and physician notable for batting
Born
July 18th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1915 110 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent cricketer and physician, played in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Associated with Gloucestershire and England's national team, played a significant role in popularizing the sport. Excelled as a batsman, accumulating over 54,000 runs in first-class cricket. His playing style and innovative techniques contributed to the evolution of batting in cricket. Also practiced medicine, balancing both careers. Considered one of the greatest cricketers in the history of the game.

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W. Graham Claytor Jr.

American Secretary of the Navy
Born
March 14th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1994 31 years ago — 82 years old

Served as the 15th United States Secretary of the Navy from 1977 to 1979. Practiced law before entering politics and held various roles in government. Appointed by President Jimmy Carter, focused on modernizing the Navy and improving relations between the military and civilian sectors. Contributed to the development of naval strategy during a transformative period in military history.

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W. G. Read Mullan

American Jesuit and academic figure
Died
January 25th, 1910 115 years ago — None years old

Played a significant role in American academia and Jesuit education. Contributed to the development of educational institutions under the Jesuit order. Advocated for academic excellence and moral integrity in education, shaping the curriculum and guiding students toward intellectual and religious growth. Engaged in scholarly pursuits and published various works that explored the intersection of faith and education.

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W. G. Sebald

Novelist known for 'The Emigrants'
Born
May 18th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2001 23 years ago — 57 years old

An influential writer, focused on themes of memory, exile, and the impact of history. Worked primarily in German and was awarded several literary prizes. Utilized a unique narrative style, blending fiction with essays and photographs. Spent a significant part of his life in England, where he taught and published extensively. 'The Emigrants', a seminal work, explored the lives of displaced individuals and their ties to the past. Other notable works include 'Austerlitz' and 'Vertigo', which delve into similar themes.

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Wharton Esherick

American sculptor and furniture designer
Born
July 15th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 83 years old

An American sculptor and furniture designer contributed significantly to the American modernist movement in the 20th century. Originally trained as a painter, transitioned to sculpture and became influential in the development of studio furniture. Established a unique style that merged functional design with artistic expression. The Esherick House, designed by Louis Kahn, reflects the integration of his works and environment.

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W. H. Auden

Poet and playwright of the 20th century
Born
February 21st, 1907 118 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1973 52 years ago — 66 years old

Auden emerged as a prominent figure in 20th-century literature, contributing significantly to poetry and drama. His works explored themes of love, politics, and human existence. Auden's poetry reflects modernist influences and complex emotional depth. He received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1948 for the collection 'The Age of Anxiety,' which also received critical acclaim as a landmark work. Auden's collaboration with composer Benjamin Britten on operas and vocal works further showcased his versatility. His literary career spanned several decades, leaving a lasting impact on the literary world.

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W. Heath Robinson

English cartoonist and illustrator
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1944 81 years ago — 72 years old

This individual gained recognition for creating whimsical and humorous illustrations that often depicted intricate and absurd mechanical contraptions. Initially worked as an illustrator for various magazines, eventually establishing a distinct style characterized by elaborate drawings. The works often included social commentary and were used to satirize contemporary life and the inefficiencies of technology. Published several books comprising collections of illustrations, which contributed to the popularity of the style. The term 'Heath Robinson' became synonymous with excessively complicated devices and scenarios.

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Whigfield

Danish pop singer, 'Saturday Night'
Born
April 11th, 1970 55 years ago

A Danish singer and songwriter gained prominence in the 1990s with the hit single 'Saturday Night'. The song topped charts in multiple countries and became a defining track of the Eurodance genre. After the success of the debut single, released in 1994, further albums and singles followed, maintaining a presence in the European music scene. Collaborations and remixes contributed to ongoing popularity, with performances across various countries. While initial success was concentrated in the 90s, later works continued to resonate with fans of Eurodance music, showcasing a commitment to the pop genre.

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Whipper Billy Watson

Professional wrestler and trainer
Born
June 25th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1990 35 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent figure in professional wrestling, gained fame primarily in the 1950s and 1960s. Competed in various organizations including the National Wrestling Alliance and the World Wrestling Federation. Held the NWA World Heavyweight Championship and was a star attraction in wrestling venues across Canada and the United States. Transitioned to a training role, mentoring numerous aspiring wrestlers and contributing to the sport's development. His legacy includes a strong influence on wrestling techniques and promotion of the sport's popularity.

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Whitaker Wright

English businessman and financier
Born
February 9th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1904 121 years ago — 57 years old

Involved in the mining and finance sectors, played a key role in the establishment and promotion of various companies. Managed the London-based enterprise, the United Mines of Wicklow, which engaged in mining operations in Ireland. Contributed to the establishment of theatrical productions and financial ventures in the early 20th century. Faced significant legal issues due to fraudulent practices in financial dealings, and these ultimately led to a trial for conspiracy to defraud shareholders.

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Whit Bissell

Character Actor in Film and Television
Born
October 25th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1996 29 years ago — 86 years old

A prolific character actor, achieved recognition for a career spanning over five decades. Appeared in numerous films and television series, often portraying authoritative figures. Notable roles included parts in classic science fiction films such as "The Time Machine" and "Invasion of the Body Snatchers." Frequently appeared in popular television series during the 1950s and 1960s, leaving a lasting impression with guest roles in shows like "The Twilight Zone" and "Bonanza."

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