All the People

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

William Coddington

American politician, Governor of Rhode Island
Born
1601 424 years ago
Died
November 1st, 1678 347 years ago — 77 years old

Served as a prominent political leader and judge in early colonial America. Established a significant role in the governance of Rhode Island, exhibiting strong leadership during the colony's formative years. Played a crucial part in the founding of the colony, demonstrating commitment to principles of freedom and democracy. As the first Governor of Rhode Island, held office multiple times and oversaw the development of the colony's legal and political framework.

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William Cohen

Lawyer and U.S. Secretary of Defense
Born
August 28th, 1940 85 years ago

An American lawyer and politician served as the 20th Secretary of Defense from 1997 to 2001 under President Bill Clinton. Prior to this role, significant contributions included representing Maine in the U.S. Senate from 1973 to 1997 with a focus on national defense and foreign policy. Cohen also held the position of U.S. Representative from 1973 to 1975. Among achievements, authored legislation pertaining to defense reform and oversaw military operations during his tenure as Secretary of Defense, including the response to the Kosovo War.

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William Colby

Intelligence officer, CIA Director
Born
January 4th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1996 29 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1920, served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Joined the Office of Strategic Services, the predecessor to the CIA, and participated in intelligence operations. Became a key figure in the CIA during the Cold War. Appointed as the 10th Director of Central Intelligence in 1973, leading the agency during a turbulent period marked by the Watergate scandal. Oversaw controversial programs, such as the Phoenix Program in Vietnam. Resigned in 1975 following the Church Committee investigations into CIA activities.

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William Colgate

Businessman and founder of Colgate-Palmolive
Born
January 25th, 1783 242 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1857 168 years ago — 74 years old

An English-American businessman established a personal care and cleaning products company that later became Colgate-Palmolive. In 1806, started a soap business in New York City, which expanded into producing additional personal care products and dental hygiene items. The company became renowned for its toothpaste and soap products. Colgate was also active in philanthropy, contributing to various charitable causes.

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William Collier Jr.

American actor and producer in film and TV
Born
February 12th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1987 38 years ago — 84 years old

An American actor and producer, active primarily from the 1920s to the 1950s, recognized for performances in both film and television. Played prominent roles in series such as 'The Life of Riley' and films including 'The Great Ziegfeld'. Collier contributed to the entertainment industry through both acting and production, showcasing versatility across multiple formats.

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William Collins Whitney

American financier and politician
Born
July 5th, 1841 184 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1904 121 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the 31st United States Secretary of the Navy from 1885 to 1889. Played a significant role in modernizing the U.S. Navy during a pivotal time of naval expansion. Worked as a financier and investor, contributing to various enterprises, and engaged in Democratic Party politics. Actively involved in the establishment of several important city institutions, significantly impacting urban development in New York City. Influenced policies affecting naval strategy and shipbuilding.

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William Congreve

Playwright and poet, The Way of the World
Born
January 24th, 1670 355 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1729 296 years ago — 58 years old

A playwright and poet who wrote comedies that reflected the manners and morals of the English upper class during the late 17th century. Congreve's work often displayed sharp wit and social commentary. His most celebrated play, 'The Way of the World,' premiered in 1700 and is considered a classic of Restoration comedy, representing the style and spirit of the era. In addition to his plays, Congreve also composed poems and collaborated on other theatrical works. His influence extended to later playwrights and marked a significant period in English theatre.

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William Conrad

Actor and producer of 'Cannon'
Born
September 27th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1994 31 years ago — 73 years old

An American actor, director, and producer, contributed significantly to film and television. Gained prominence for the role of Frank Cannon in the series 'Cannon', which aired from 1971 to 1976. Voiced the character of Matt Dillon in the radio drama 'Gunsmoke', a staple in American entertainment during the 1950s. Also acted in the television series 'The Fugitive' and appeared in notable films such as 'The Killers' and 'The Great Gatsby'. Directed episodes of various television shows, demonstrating versatility in the medium.

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William Conrad Gibbons

Historian and author of historical works
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent historian and author focused on significant developments in American history. Contribution includes extensive writing on the history of the American West and the American Civil War. Served as a faculty member and advisor at various academic institutions, influencing numerous students and scholars in the field of history.

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William Contreras

Venezuelan baseball player, catcher
Born
December 24th, 1997 27 years ago

Born in Venezuela, played professional baseball as a catcher. Made MLB debut in 2020 with the Atlanta Braves. Helped the Braves win the 2021 World Series, contributing significantly as a young player. Gained recognition for offensive skills and defensive capabilities behind the plate.

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William Conway

Irish Cardinal and church leader
Born
January 22nd, 1913 112 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1977 48 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1913, this Irish cardinal served the Catholic Church and held various important roles throughout his career. Appointed as the Bishop of Armagh in 1975, he later became the Cardinal of the Archdiocese of Armagh. He attended the Second Vatican Council and contributed to the church's efforts in promoting ecumenism. His leadership in the church focused on pastoral care, education, and social justice. He remained a significant figure in the Irish Catholic community until his passing in 2017.

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William Cookworthy

Pharmacist and porcelain manufacturer
Born
April 12th, 1705 320 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1780 245 years ago — 75 years old

Service as a minister preceded a significant career in pharmacy and porcelain manufacturing. After studying pharmacy, established a successful business in Plymouth, providing remedies and medicines. Founded the first factory in England to successfully produce true porcelain, utilizing kaolin clay sourced from Cornwall. Contributed to the introduction of porcelain to England and enhanced the local economy through this innovative industry.

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