All the People

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

William B. Saxbe

70th United States Attorney General
Born
June 24th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 94 years old

Served as the 70th Attorney General of the United States from 1974 to 1975 under President Gerald Ford. Provided legal representation for the United States in various matters and played a role in the Watergate scandal aftermath. Prior to this position, held a career in law and held public office, including service as a member of the Ohio State Senate. Additionally, worked as a soldier during World War II and contributed to the legal field through various positions in private practice and public service.

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William B. Travis

American colonel at the Alamo
Born
August 1st, 1809 216 years ago
Died
1836 189 years ago — 27 years old

Born in 1809, a lawyer and soldier. Served as the Lieutenant Colonel in the Texian Army during the Texas Revolution. Commanded the Texian forces at the Battle of the Alamo, a pivotal event in the quest for Texas independence from Mexico. Was besieged in the Alamo by Mexican troops led by General Antonio López de Santa Anna. Authored the famous 'Victory or Death' letter, appealing for reinforcements during the siege. Died in battle on March 6, 1836, becoming a martyr for Texas independence.

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William Buckland

Geologist; Dean of Westminster
Born
March 12th, 1784 241 years ago
Died
1856 169 years ago — 72 years old

An English geologist and paleontologist, this individual made significant contributions to the understanding of geology and fossil records. He served as the first people to describe a dinosaur's fossil, coining the term 'Dinosauria'. His work included the study of the geology of the English Lake District and the role of fossils in understanding Earth's history. As Dean of Westminster, engagement in educational initiatives also took place, along with contributions to religious and civic life.

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William Buell Richards

Canadian Chief Justice and lawyer
Born
May 2nd, 1815 210 years ago
Died
1889 136 years ago — 74 years old

Served as the first Chief Justice of Canada from 1875 to 1876. Had a prominent legal career in Ontario, becoming a significant figure in the establishment of Canadian law. Contributed to the development and interpretation of legal principles that shaped Canada's judicial system. Appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada shortly after its establishment, played a crucial role in defining the powers and responsibilities of the judiciary in Canada.

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William Buell Sprague

American minister and historian
Born
October 16th, 1795 230 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1876 149 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent American minister and historian, contributed significantly to religious literature and historical understanding of the Presbyterian Church. Authored several influential works, including 'Annals of the American Pulpit', which documented the lives and contributions of notable preachers in America. Held the position of pastor in various congregations and served as a landmark figure in forming historical narratives within a religious context. Engaged in the promotion of social issues relevant to the church during his era.

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William Buick

Flat Jockey and Derby Winner
Born
July 22nd, 1988 37 years ago

Born in 1988, a flat jockey achieved significant success in horse racing. Notable for winning the Epsom Derby in 2018 aboard Masar. Has recorded victories in major races across the UK and internationally. Competes primarily for leading stables and has developed a reputation for skill and tactical insight during races.

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William "Bull" Nelson

American General during the Civil War
Born
September 27th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1862 163 years ago — 38 years old

Born in 1824, this American general served in the Union Army during the Civil War. He played a significant role in numerous battles, particularly in the Western Theater. He was appointed a brigadier general and commanded Union forces at the Battle of Shiloh, where his leadership contributed to the Union victory. His career was marked by service in various campaigns, and he became recognized for his aggressive tactics and ability to motivate troops. Tragically, he was assassinated by a subordinate in 1862, which cut short a promising military career.

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William Burges

English architect and designer
Born
December 2nd, 1827 197 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1881 144 years ago — 53 years old

An architect and designer specialized in the Gothic Revival style. Worked on significant projects, including Cardiff Castle and the design of the interiors at Knole House. Contributions to architecture included detailed ornamentation and a unique use of color, which distinguished his works during the Victorian era. Designed furniture and textiles that reflected his architectural vision.

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William Burnet

Dutch-American politician, 21st Governor
Born
1688 337 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1729 296 years ago — 41 years old

A civil servant and politician, served as the 21st Governor of the province of New York from 1720 until death in 1729. Predecessor in office contributed to various administrative reforms and initiatives aimed at improving governance during a time of colonial expansion. Promoted the interests of the province while navigating complex relationships with both British authorities and local Native American tribes. Held office during significant events that shaped the political landscape of the region.

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William Burton

Physician, 39th Governor of Delaware
Born
October 16th, 1789 236 years ago
Died
1866 159 years ago — 77 years old

Served as the 39th Governor of Delaware from 1861 to 1863. Worked as a physician before and during his political career. Took office amid the Civil War, focusing on issues related to public health and governance. After his term, remained active in state politics and contributed to the Democratic Party's strategies during a tumultuous period in American history.

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William B. Washburn

American politician, 28th Governor of Massachusetts
Born
January 31st, 1820 205 years ago
Died
1887 138 years ago — 67 years old

Served as the 28th Governor of Massachusetts from 1880 to 1881. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives as a Republican, serving from 1873 to 1875. Had a background in business and banking prior to entering politics, which influenced fiscal policies during his governorship. Took part in various political reforms and supported education initiatives.

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William Byrd

English composer of sacred music
Died
July 4th, 1623 402 years ago — None years old

Active during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, this composer contributed significantly to the development of English choral music. His works encompassed both sacred and secular music, including motets and anthems. A prominent figure in the Elizabethan musical scene, he became one of the first composers to write music for the Anglican Church. Byrd published several influential collections, which played a critical role in the evolution of polyphonic music in England.

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