All the People

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

William Fraser

Bishop and Guardian of Scotland
Died
August 20th, 1297 728 years ago — None years old

Bishop and Guardian played a pivotal role during the Wars of Scottish Independence. As the Bishop of St. Andrews, provided leadership to the Scottish church and political landscape. Acted as a Guardian of Scotland, helping to defend Scottish interests against English rule. Influenced key decisions during a turbulent period in Scotland's history, contributing to the national identity and governance.

Continue Reading

William Frawley

American actor on 'I Love Lucy'
Born
February 26th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1966 59 years ago — 79 years old

An American actor and vaudevillian, became a prominent figure in the entertainment industry during the 20th century. Best recognized for portraying Fred Mertz on the television series 'I Love Lucy', which aired from 1951 to 1957. Prior to television fame, participated in vaudeville performances and appeared in various films. Frawley's career spanned several decades, featuring work in both stage and screen productions.

Continue Reading

William Frederick

Dutch stadtholder, Prince of Nassau-Dietz
Born
August 7th, 1613 412 years ago
Died
1664 361 years ago — 51 years old

Born in 1613, William Frederick served as Prince of Nassau-Dietz and stadtholder of Friesland, Groningen, Overijssel, and Drenthe during the early 17th century. His leadership occurred during a tumultuous period for the Dutch Republic, marked by ongoing conflict with Spain amid the Eighty Years' War. As a military leader, William Frederick participated in several campaigns aimed at securing Dutch interests against Spanish forces. His governorship contributed to the administration of these regions within the Dutch Republic and helped maintain stability during the war.

Continue Reading

William Friedkin

Director of The Exorcist and French Connection
Born
August 29th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2023 2 years ago — 87 years old

A director, producer, and screenwriter. Gained prominence in the 1970s with distinctive narrative techniques and compelling visuals. Directed the horror film 'The Exorcist', which became iconic in the genre, known for its powerful storytelling and memorable scenes. 'The French Connection', another significant work, won several Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. Contributed to the evolution of American cinema during a transformative period.

Continue Reading

William Friese-Greene

Photographer and early film pioneer
Born
September 7th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
1921 104 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent English photographer and cinematographer, contributed significantly to the evolution of motion pictures. Developed early film techniques and equipment in the late 19th century. Established a proficient career in photography before transitioning to directing and producing films. Created several pioneering short films that utilized innovative cinematic techniques. Advocated for the development of motion picture technology during a formative period in cinema’s history.

Continue Reading

William Froude

Engineer and architect, developed hydraulic models
Born
November 28th, 1810 214 years ago
Died
1879 146 years ago — 69 years old

An English engineer and architect, significant contributions included the development of hydrodynamic principles. Worked on creating and refining hydraulic models for naval architecture, influencing ship design and stability. Introduced methods for testing ship hull designs by using a flume, leading to advancements in engineering practices. Also conducted studies on wave resistance and ship performance, affecting naval engineering approaches.

Continue Reading

William F. Walsh

American politician and Syracuse mayor
Born
July 11th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 99 years old

Served as the 48th Mayor of Syracuse, New York, from 1950 to 1954. Engaged in various urban development initiatives during the tenure as mayor. Oversaw improvements in the city's infrastructure and public services. Held the position of captain in the United States Army during World War II. Contributed to local politics and community projects throughout the post-war period.

Continue Reading

William Gaddis

American author of 'The Recognitions'
Born
December 29th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1998 26 years ago — 75 years old

An American author and academic, work focused on postmodern literature. First novel, 'The Recognitions', published in 1955, explored themes of art and authenticity. Gaddis received the National Book Award for 'JR' in 1976, illustrating the complexity of capitalism and American society. Contributed to the development of modern narrative techniques through intricate characterizations and innovative structures. Later works include 'Carpenter's Gothic' and 'A Frolic of His Own', both showcasing his distinctive style and critical engagement with literary traditions.

Continue Reading

William Gaines

American publisher of comic books
Born
March 1st, 1922 103 years ago
Died
1992 33 years ago — 70 years old

A significant figure in the comic book industry, this publisher co-founded EC Comics, which became renowned for horror and satire comics in the 1950s. The publisher's works included titles such as 'Tales from the Crypt' and 'MAD.', which offered biting social commentary and dark humor. Under this leadership, EC Comics gained a large readership and influenced various pop culture elements. The publisher also played a crucial role in the comic book industry's response to the Senate hearings on juvenile delinquency and censorship in the 1950s.

Continue Reading

William Gallas

French footballer with Premier League success
Born
August 17th, 1977 48 years ago

A professional footballer played as a defender. Started the career at Caen before moving to Marseille, contributing to the team's success in Ligue 1. Achieved notable recognition in the Premier League while playing for Chelsea and Arsenal, with a strong defensive presence. Played for Tottenham Hotspur later in the career and was part of the French national team, participating in two FIFA World Cups and the UEFA Euro 2008.

Continue Reading

William Gamble

American Civil War General
Born
January 1st, 1818 207 years ago
Died
1866 159 years ago — 48 years old

Born in Ireland, Gamble migrated to the United States in the early 19th century. He attended West Point and graduated in 1840. Gamble served in the Mexican-American War and later held various positions in the U.S. Army. During the Civil War, he rose to prominence as a Union general, participating in several key battles, including the Battle of Gettysburg. Gamble commanded a brigade, demonstrating military leadership that contributed to Union efforts.

Continue Reading

William Gargan

American actor from 'The Enchanted Cottage'
Born
July 17th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1979 46 years ago — 73 years old

An American actor gained recognition primarily for work in films and television during the mid-20th century. Started career on Broadway, transitioned to the screen with notable roles in movies such as 'The Enchanted Cottage' and 'The Dark Mirror'. Involved in radio shows, most notably as the title character in the detective series 'Barry Craig, Confidential Investigator'. Gargan's contributions to American cinema and television left a lasting legacy.

Continue Reading