All the People

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

William Alden Smith

American lawyer and politician, U.S. Senator
Born
May 12th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1932 93 years ago — 73 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from Michigan from 1923 to 1927. Played a significant role in various legislative efforts during tenure. Contributed to the establishment of veterans' services and was involved in issues related to immigration and labor. Prior to becoming a senator, held positions such as a state representative in Michigan and engaged in law practice. Worked to improve infrastructure and public services in the state.

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William Alexander

Irish archbishop and poet
Born
April 13th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
1911 114 years ago — 87 years old

An Irish archbishop, poet, and theologian contributed significantly to religious literature. Served as the Archbishop of Armagh from 1887 until 1911. Authored several works that explored the intersection of faith and reason, with a focus on pastoral care and responsibilities. Engaged in various theological discussions and writings that shaped contemporary religious thought. His poetry often reflected spiritual themes and the beauty of nature.

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William Alfred Fowler

Physicist and astronomer, Nobel laureate
Born
August 9th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1995 30 years ago — 83 years old

Accomplished physicist and astronomer focused on nuclear processes and stellar evolution. Contributed to understanding nucleosynthesis, the formation of elements in stars. Played a significant role in advancing astrophysics through research and education. Served as a professor at the California Institute of Technology and shared insights through numerous publications. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1983 for contributions to elucidating stellar nucleosynthesis and processes occurring in the universe.

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William Allain

American lawyer and politician, Governor
Born
February 14th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2013 11 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the 58th Governor of Mississippi from 1984 to 1988. Before the governorship, held various political positions, including serving in the Mississippi House of Representatives and as a state senator. Advocated for education reforms and economic development initiatives during the tenure as governor. After leaving office, contributed to state political and legal affairs.

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William Alland

Actor and producer of 'Citizen Kane'
Born
March 4th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1997 28 years ago — 81 years old

An actor, director, and producer, contributed significantly to the film industry during the mid-20th century. Served as a producer for several influential films, including 'Citizen Kane', which is often regarded as one of the greatest movies ever made. Directed the film 'The Stranger' and acted in various productions, showcasing versatility in both acting and filmmaking. Also worked frequently with Orson Welles, solidifying a partnership that led to notable cinematic achievements.

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William Allen

English cardinal and religious leader
Born
1532 493 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1594 431 years ago — 62 years old

Established the English College in Douai, which became a significant center for Catholic education. Actively opposed Protestant reforms through various works, including 'A Defence of the Honour of the English College' and 'The Apology for the English Catholics.' Allen played a crucial role in the Catholic Reformation within England and served as a prominent figure for the Catholic Church during a time of significant religious turmoil.

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William Allen White

American journalist and author of 'In Our Times'
Born
February 10th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1944 81 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent journalist and author, this individual gained recognition for editorial writing and commentary on social issues. Notable works include the book 'In Our Times,' which reflects on American life in the early 20th century. The individual served as editor of the Emporia Gazette in Kansas, using the platform to influence public opinion. Engaging in political discourse, advocacy for civil rights, and community improvement marked significant phases of this individual's career. Contributions to literature and journalism garnered acclaim throughout the United States.

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William Allingham

Irish poet and author of The Music Master
Born
March 19th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1889 135 years ago — 65 years old

Born in Ireland in 1824, an influential poet and author emerged prominently in the literary scene of the 19th century. A close associate of notable literary figures, engaged in writing both poetry and prose. His major work, The Music Master, became widely recognized for its lyrical quality and introspective themes. In addition to poetry, was involved in literary criticism and contributed to various periodicals, enhancing discourse within Irish literature. Active within literary circles, helped to promote the works of contemporaries and participated in cultural discussions that shaped the artistic landscape of the time. Though primarily remembered for his poetry, also engaged in scholarly work that detailed his literary insights.

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William Alwyn

Composer and conductor of symphonic works
Born
November 7th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1985 40 years ago — 79 years old

English composer, conductor, and educator contributed extensively to music during the 20th century. Created symphonies, concertos, and operas, establishing a prominent reputation in the classical music scene. Served as a professor at the Royal Academy of Music, influencing a generation of musicians. His compositions often featured lush orchestrations and incorporated elements from various musical traditions. Received numerous accolades throughout his career for both his compositions and contributions to music education.

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William A. MacCorkle

American politician, 9th Governor of WV
Born
May 7th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1930 95 years ago — 73 years old

Served as the 9th Governor of West Virginia from 1893 to 1897. Focused on educational reform and infrastructure development during the governorship. Prior experience included service in the West Virginia House of Delegates and the Senate. Engaged in legal practice and contributed to the establishment of local institutions.

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William Ames

English philosopher and theologian
Born
1576 449 years ago
Died
November 14th, 1633 392 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent figure in early Puritan thought, significantly contributed to the development of Reformed theology. Served as a professor of theology at the University of Franeker in the Netherlands. Focused on the relationship between faith and reason, as well as the nature of God's sovereignty. Wrote influential works, including 'The Marrow of Theology', which elaborated on the doctrines of salvation and grace.

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William Anders

Astronaut, Apollo 8 Lunar Module Pilot
Born
October 17th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
June 7th, 2024 1 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1933, a general and astronaut with significant contributions to space exploration. Participated in Apollo 8, the first crewed mission to orbit the Moon. The mission provided critical information for future lunar landings and included a televised Christmas Eve broadcast from lunar orbit. Held various leadership roles in the United States Air Force, retiring as a major general. Also served as an executive in the private sector after leaving NASA.

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