All the People

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

William Godwin

English journalist and political author
Born
March 3rd, 1756 269 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1836 189 years ago — 80 years old

A notable figure in English literature, played a significant role in the development of the modern novel and political philosophy. Authored 'Political Justice', which laid the foundations for modern anarchism. Contributed to the Romantic movement with essays and works that critiqued social institutions and explored human nature. Involved in the radical politics of his time and influenced various thinkers and writers.

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William Golding

British novelist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
September 19th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1993 32 years ago — 81 years old

A British novelist, playwright, and poet, achievements include the exploration of human nature through literature. The publication of the novel 'Lord of the Flies' in 1954 marked a significant moment in literary history, depicting the descent into savagery of a group of boys stranded on an uninhabited island. In 1983, awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for writings that illuminate the complexities of humanity. Contributions to drama and poetry include works such as 'The Inheritors' and 'Free Fall'.

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William Goldman

Screenwriter, author of Butch Cassidy
Born
August 12th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2018 6 years ago — 87 years old

An American author, playwright, and screenwriter. Crafted prominent screenplays and novels, receiving acclaim for works in film and literature. Achieved success in both mediums, showcasing a talent for storytelling. Wrote the screenplays for notable films such as 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' and 'All the President's Men.' Authored the novel 'The Princess Bride,' which was adapted into a successful film. Received two Academy Awards for Best Original Screenplay. Influenced the field of screenwriting with a focus on character depth and narrative structure.

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William Goodhart

English lawyer and politician
Born
January 18th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician in England, played a significant role in the legislative processes during his career. Served as a member of the House of Lords after being made a life peer in 1997. Was involved in various legal and political reforms, contributing his expertise to discussions on civil liberties and human rights. Also held key positions in several legal organizations and was influential in shaping policies within the British legal framework.

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William Graham

Scottish politician and 1st Earl of Montrose
Born
1464 561 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1513 512 years ago — 49 years old

An influential Scottish noble, held the title of 1st Earl of Montrose. Played a significant role in Scottish politics during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Actively participated in the political machinations of the time and was engaged in conflicts involving rival factions. His tenure included involvement in the struggles against the crown and the promotion of his family's interests in the region.

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William Grant Stairs

Explorer and captain of East Africa
Born
July 1st, 1863 162 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1892 133 years ago — 28 years old

An explorer and captain in East Africa, played a significant role in various expeditions during the late 19th century. Participated in the Emin Pasha Relief Expedition, which aimed to assist a besieged governor in Africa. Contributed to geographic knowledge of the region and collected specimens for scientific research. Documented extensive details of the cultures and landscapes encountered during explorations.

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William Grant Still

Composer and conductor of Afro-American Symphony
Born
May 11th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 83 years old

An American composer and conductor, recognized for contributions to classical music, particularly in the realm of orchestral compositions. Studied at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music and later worked with notable figures such as Florence Price and George Gershwin. Composed over 150 works, including symphonies, operas, and chamber pieces. Became the first African American to conduct a major symphony orchestra in the United States when he led the Los Angeles Philharmonic in 1936. The 'Afro-American Symphony' remains a significant piece within the American classical repertoire, showcasing a blend of African American folk traditions and classical forms.

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William Greaves

Documentary filmmaker and television producer
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old

William Greaves was an American director and producer, instrumental in the creation of influential documentaries and television programs. A significant work includes the documentary series 'Black Journal,' which aired on public television and presented various aspects of African American life. Greaves also directed 'Symbiose,' a celebrated documentary focused on the relationship between man and nature. His work often explored social issues and cultural identity, contributing to the representation of African Americans in media and the arts. Greaves's career spanned several decades, during which he received recognition for his innovative approaches to filmmaking and storytelling.

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William Green

American union leader and politician
Born
March 3rd, 1873 152 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 79 years old

In the early 20th century, this individual served as a prominent labor leader and politician. An influential figure in the American Federation of Labor, tenure as president spanned from 1924 to 1952. Focused on expanding union rights and improving labor conditions, strategies included organizing workers into unions and negotiating better wages. Worked to provide a unified voice for workers during a period marked by significant industrial changes and the Great Depression.

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William Grenville

English politician and Prime Minister
Born
October 25th, 1759 266 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1834 191 years ago — 74 years old

One served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1806 to 1807. Actively participated in the House of Commons and contributed to various legislative reforms. Active in political life for decades, focusing on foreign policy and domestic issues. Played a crucial role in the formation of the Whig party and opposition to the policies of the Tory administration. Later became a member of the House of Lords as the 1st Baron Grenville.

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William G. Roll

Psychologist and parapsychologist
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old

A psychologist and parapsychologist, contributed significantly to the study of psychical research. Engaged in research on poltergeists and survival after death, publishing extensively on these topics. Developed the concept of 'psychokinesis' and conducted various experiments to test this phenomenon. Held the position of Director of the Psychical Research Foundation, where numerous studies were conducted to examine paranormal events and psychological phenomena.

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William Gropper

Lithographer and painter
Born
December 3rd, 1897 127 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1977 48 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed significantly to American art through lithography and painting. Engaged in political cartooning, often reflecting societal issues. Produced notable works during the 20th century, with a prominent career that spanned multiple decades. Also explored murals and illustrations, leaving a lasting legacy in the realms of visual arts and political commentary.

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