All the People

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

Wilfred Pickles

English actor and radio host
Born
October 13th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 74 years old

Originating from England, this actor and radio host gained popularity through performances in radio and television. He became a household name in the 1940s and 1950s with the radio program 'Have a Go'. Transitioning to television, he hosted his own variety show, showcasing an array of talents and engaging with the audience. His warm and approachable style contributed to his appeal across generations, establishing a significant presence in British entertainment.

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Wilfred Rhodes

English cricketer and coach
Born
October 29th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1973 52 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent cricketer from England, his career spanned from 1899 to 1930. Primarily a left-arm spin bowler, he played for Yorkshire and the England national cricket team. Rhodes participated in over 500 first-class matches, taking more than 4,000 wickets. He also excelled as a batsman, scoring over 39,000 runs in first-class cricket. After retiring from playing, he took on coaching roles, contributing to the development of future cricketers. His dedication to the sport extended beyond his playing days, impacting cricket through coaching and mentorship.

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Wilfred Thesiger

Explorer and author of Arabian Sands
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
August 24th, 2003 22 years ago — 93 years old

Ethiopian-English explorer and author conducted extensive explorations in the Arabian Peninsula and the Empty Quarter. Authored several books that documented the cultures and landscapes of the regions explored. His most notable work, 'Arabian Sands', provided detailed accounts of the Bedouin way of life and the challenges faced during traversing deserts. Thesiger's affinity for the desert and its peoples was a central theme in his writings, offering insights into a lifestyle that was under threat from modernization.

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Wilfrid Brambell

Irish actor in Steptoe and Son
Born
March 22nd, 1912 113 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 73 years old

Acclaimed for a prominent role in British television, a significant contribution included playing Albert Steptoe in the sitcom 'Steptoe and Son'. Additionally, featured in various films such as 'A Hard Day's Night' alongside The Beatles. The actor's performances received recognition for their wit and charm, establishing a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.

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Wilfrid Hamel

Canadian businessman and politician
Born
July 16th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 73 years old

A businessman and politician served as the 35th Mayor of Quebec City. Held the mayoral office during the mid-20th century. Contributed to local development and governance.

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Wilfrid Hyde-White

English actor in film and television
Born
May 12th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1991 34 years ago — 87 years old

An accomplished English actor, a prominent figure in film and television during the mid-20th century. Gained recognition for performances in film adaptations such as 'My Fair Lady' and 'The Ladykillers'. Demonstrated versatility in character roles across various genres including drama and comedy. Made notable appearances in television series, including the role of Colonel Pickering in the acclaimed adaptation of 'Pygmalion'.

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Wilfrid Israel

German businessman and philanthropist
Born
July 11th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1943 82 years ago — 43 years old

A businessman and philanthropist significantly contributed to the rescue of Jews during the Holocaust. Managed a successful department store in Berlin and later became a leading figure in efforts to facilitate Jewish emigration. Involved with the Bricha organization, which assisted Jewish refugees escaping Europe. Worked closely with various organizations to promote Jewish welfare and support displaced persons after World War II.

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Wilfrid Laurier

Canadian Prime Minister and lawyer
Born
November 20th, 1841 183 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1919 106 years ago — 77 years old

Served as the 7th Prime Minister of Canada from 1896 to 1911. Led the country during a time of significant national growth and fostered the expansion of Canadian confederation. Advocated for a liberal and progressive vision of Canada, promoting immigration and economic development. His government implemented policies expanding railways and offered support for the growth of the west. Laurier also played a crucial role in navigating Canada's relationship with Britain and the United States during his tenure.

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Wilfrid Noyce

Mountaineer and author of climbing literature
Born
December 31st, 1917 107 years ago
Died
July 24th, 1962 63 years ago — 44 years old

A prominent English mountaineer and author, contributed significantly to mountaineering literature and exploration. Played a key role in the first ascent of Makalu in 1955 as part of a British expedition. Authored several works on mountain climbing, including 'The Hard Road' which detailed personal experiences and the philosophy of climbing. Actively participated in numerous expeditions to the Himalayas and other regions, promoting the sport and sharing knowledge on climbing techniques and ethics.

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Wilfrid Pelletier

Pianist, composer, and conductor
Born
June 20th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1982 43 years ago — 85 years old

Acclaimed as a pivotal figure in Canadian classical music. Contributed significantly as a pianist, composer, and conductor, showcasing expertise in various performances and orchestrations. Served as the music director for the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, elevating the orchestra's prominence in the music scene. Engaged in promoting Canadian music and artists through various initiatives, including collaborations with notable musicians and composers.

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Wilfrid Scawen Blunt

English poet and social activist
Born
August 17th, 1840 185 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1922 103 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1840, a poet and activist focused on social justice and the rights of marginalized communities. Active in the movement for Irish Home Rule, he also opposed the British intervention in Egypt. His poetry often reflected his political views and his engagement with issues of imperialism and freedom. Blunt published several volumes of poetry and wrote extensively on Middle Eastern politics and society, advocating for the rights of the Arab people against colonial powers.

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Wilfrid Sheed

American novelist and essayist
Born
December 27th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 81 years old

English-born American novelist and essayist contributed significantly to the literary world through insightful works. Gained recognition for both fiction and non-fiction, often exploring themes of culture and intellect. Authored novels such as 'George's Ghost' and wrote extensively for various publications, including essays that appeared in prominent magazines. Exhibited a keen ability to blend humor with serious commentary, making a mark in literary circles.

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