All the People

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

Wilbur Snyder

American football player and wrestler
Born
September 15th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1991 33 years ago — 62 years old

Played professional American football and competed in wrestling. Participated in the National Football League during the 1950s, playing for teams such as the Washington Football Team and the Philadelphia Eagles. Transitioned into wrestling after football, becoming a successful professional wrestler recognized across various territories. Achieved notable success in WWE and captured multiple championships.

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Wilbur Thompson

American Shot Putter, Olympic Medalist
Born
April 6th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1921, a skilled shot putter represented the United States in international competitions. Competed at the 1948 Summer Olympics in London, earning a bronze medal. Made significant contributions to the sport at the national level and participated in various championships throughout his career.

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Wilbur Ware

American double-bassist, jazz musician
Born
September 8th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 56 years old

Active during the mid-20th century, made significant contributions to jazz music as a double-bassist. Collaborated with prominent musicians such as Thelonious Monk and McCoy Tyner. Recorded several albums, showcasing a unique style that blended traditional and contemporary jazz elements. Participated in performances at renowned jazz festivals and venues, influencing the development of jazz rhythm sections. Ware's work remains an enduring influence on bassists in the jazz genre.

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Wilbur Wright

Aviation pioneer and inventor
Born
April 16th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1912 113 years ago — 45 years old

An American inventor and aviation pioneer contributed significantly to the development of the airplane. Along with his brother, designed and built the first successful powered aircraft. The Wright Flyer achieved the first powered flight on December 17, 1903, in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. This achievement marked a pivotal moment in aviation history and paved the way for the future of air travel. Established the Wright Company to manufacture airplanes after the early success.

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Wild Bill Hickok

American lawman and legendary gunfighter
Born
May 27th, 1837 188 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1876 149 years ago — 39 years old

Born in 1837, a lawman and gunfighter. Served as a law enforcement officer in various frontier towns, including Abilene, Kansas. Gained a reputation for exceptional marksmanship and quick draw. Involved in various shootouts, solidifying a legendary status in American folklore. Also worked as a scout for the Union Army during the Civil War and served as a performer in Wild West shows. His life inspired numerous books and films.

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Wilder Penfield

Neurosurgeon and brain map creator
Born
January 26th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1976 49 years ago — 85 years old

An American-Canadian neurosurgeon and academic, significant contributions included pioneering techniques in brain surgery. Developed the Montreal Procedure, a groundbreaking technique for treating epilepsy through localized brain tissue removal. Conducted extensive research on brain functions, creating detailed maps that linked specific brain areas to functions and sensations, benefitting both surgical practice and neuroscience. Served as a professor at McGill University and directed the Montreal Neurological Institute, fostering advancements in neurosurgery and education.

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Wiley

English rapper and music producer
Born
January 19th, 1979 46 years ago

An influential figure in the UK garage and grime scenes, notable for pioneering the genre. Released the album 'Trekkie' in 2004, which showcased innovative sounds and lyrical styles. Collaboration with other artists helped to elevate the grime genre. Established a successful career both as a solo artist and a producer, contributing to the emergence of a unique British hip-hop culture.

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Wiley Post

Aviation pioneer and record-setting pilot
Born
November 22nd, 1898 126 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1935 90 years ago — 36 years old

Born in 1898, a pilot made significant contributions to aviation through solo transcontinental and around-the-world flights. Developed the first practical pressure suit, which was crucial for high-altitude flight. Achieved fame for completing the first solo flight around the world in 1933, a journey that lasted 7 days, 18 hours. Post's explorations included notable flights above the Arctic, contributing to the understanding of weather patterns. Tragically died in a plane crash in 1935 but left a lasting legacy in the field of aviation.

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Wilf Copping

English footballer, played for Arsenal
Born
August 17th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 71 years old

Played as a defender and had a significant career in football. Started with the local club and joined Arsenal, where contributions helped the team secure league titles. Later, played for other clubs throughout the career, including an impactful tenure at Wolverhampton Wanderers. Represented the national team, showcasing skills on an international level during a competitive era in English football.

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Wilf Mannion

English footballer and Middlesbrough star
Born
May 16th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
April 14th, 2000 25 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent footballer, played primarily as an inside forward during the 1940s and 1950s. Established a significant career at Middlesbrough, where he became a key player. Contributed to the team's success, making over 300 appearances. Earned recognition for exceptional skill and technical ability on the field. Represented the England national team, earning multiple caps, and participated in the 1950 FIFA World Cup.

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Wilford Brimley

American actor and Quaker Oats spokesman
Born
September 27th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
August 1st, 2020 5 years ago — 85 years old

Birth occurred in 1934 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Began a career in acting during the 1970s, achieving prominence through both film and television. Featured in over 30 films, including key roles in "The Natural" and "Cocoon." Also appeared in the popular television series "Our House." Brimley was recognized for his distinct voice and rugged character portrayals. Spent years promoting diabetes awareness after being diagnosed with the illness.

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Wilford White

American football player, NFL Champion
Born
September 26th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
August 1st, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old

A professional American football player played as a center and linebacker. White played for the Green Bay Packers during the 1950s. Contributed to the team’s success in the NFL Championship in the 1961 season. Also played for the Detroit Lions and participated in various games throughout his career.

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