All the People

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

William Archibald Spooner

English priest and scholar known for Spoonerisms
Born
July 22nd, 1844 181 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1930 95 years ago — 86 years old

An English priest and scholar, this individual gained recognition for contributions to education and linguistics in the late 19th century. Holding a position at the University of Oxford, he engaged in teaching and echoed a commitment to the development of the Anglican Church. His legacy includes the creation of verbal errors called Spoonerisms, characterized by the transposition of sounds in phrases, which has since entered popular culture and linguistic studies. The individual's work helped foster interest in phonetics and language play.

Continue Reading

William Armstrong

English engineer and inventor of hydropower
Born
1810 215 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1900 124 years ago — 90 years old

An influential engineer and businessman in England, established the engineering and armaments company Armstrong Whitworth. Pioneered the use of hydraulic power in the manufacturing industry, contributing significantly to the development of modern engineering techniques. Played a key role in the construction of the iconic Tyneside shipyards, significantly advancing shipbuilding. Also engaged in public life and was awarded a barony for contributions to industry and society, particularly in the field of engineering.

Continue Reading

William Arnon Henry

American academic and agriculturist
Born
June 16th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1932 92 years ago — 82 years old

Contributed significantly to agricultural education and research. Served as a professor and held various academic positions throughout a lengthy career. Focused on improving agricultural practices and enhancing the understanding of farm management. Published numerous articles and reports that advanced the field of agriculture in the United States.

Continue Reading

William Arnott

Biscuit manufacturer, founder of Arnott's
Born
December 6th, 1827 197 years ago
Died
1901 124 years ago — 74 years old

Established Arnott's Biscuits, a major biscuit manufacturer in Australia. Played a crucial role in the development of the Australian baking industry. Set the foundation for the company's reputation which grew over the years.

Continue Reading

William A. Rusher

Lawyer and journalist for National Review
Born
July 19th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 88 years old

Practiced law and contributed to journalism. Served as the publisher of the National Review, a magazine that played a significant role in American conservative politics. Engaged in commentary on various political issues through writing and public speaking. Was active in media and political circles, influencing conservative thought during a pivotal era in American history.

Continue Reading

William Asher

American director of 'Bewitched'
Born
August 8th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 90 years old

Director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to television, particularly during the 1960s. Created and produced the beloved sitcom 'Bewitched', which became a cultural landmark and lasted for eight successful seasons. The whimsical story of a witch married to a mortal showcased innovative storytelling and special effects. Also directed episodes for other series including 'I Love Lucy' and 'The Dick Van Dyke Show', further cementing a prominent place in television history.

Continue Reading

William Ashhurst

English banker and Lord Mayor of London
Born
April 26th, 1647 378 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1720 305 years ago — 72 years old

A banker and politician served as Lord Mayor of London. Held the office in 1704. Contributed significantly to the financial landscape of London during a period of economic growth and stability. Played a crucial role in local governance, overseeing various civic duties and improvements in the city. His tenure is remembered for its focus on economic prosperity and urban development.

Continue Reading

William Ashley

Historian and academic specialized in economic history
Born
February 25th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
1927 98 years ago — 67 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of economic history, focusing on the development of British economic thought. Served as a professor at the University of Birmingham and was actively involved in the establishment of the Economic History Society. Authored several influential works, including 'Economic History', which outlined economic trends and theories from the past. Engaged in editorial work for prominent historical journals and participated in academic circles to promote the study of economic history. His scholarly efforts laid foundations for later studies in the field.

Continue Reading

William Astbury

Physicist and molecular biologist
Born
February 25th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 63 years old

A physicist and molecular biologist contributed significantly to the understanding of proteins. Pioneered the use of X-ray diffraction techniques to study the structures of biological macromolecules. The research provided insights into the molecular structure of fibers, particularly collagen and keratin. Served as a professor at the University of Leeds, where extensive studies on the molecular configuration of biological substances were conducted.

Continue Reading

William Atherton

Actor in Ghostbusters and Die Hard
Born
July 30th, 1947 78 years ago

An American actor and producer, this individual gained recognition through notable roles in films and television. Most prominently, a character in "Ghostbusters" and another in "Die Hard" highlighted range and versatility. Over the years, involvement in various theatrical productions also contributed to a successful career in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

William Attewell

Cricketer and Umpire in England
Born
June 12th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1927 98 years ago — 65 years old

Played cricket for Nottinghamshire and represented England in international matches. Served as an umpire in first-class cricket, contributing to the sport beyond his playing career. His involvement in cricket spanned several years, showcasing talent both on and off the field. Attewell was part of the Nottinghamshire team that competed in various county championships during the late 19th century.

Continue Reading

William Augustus Bootle

American lawyer and federal judge
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
January 25th, 2005 20 years ago — 103 years old

Graduated from Emory University and received a law degree from the University of Georgia. Served as a lawyer before becoming a United States District Judge for the Middle District of Georgia in 1964. Presided over several important civil rights cases during the 1960s, addressing school desegregation and voting rights in Georgia. Contributed to the development of federal judicial standards through various rulings until retirement in 1990.

Continue Reading