All the People

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

William Hanna

Animator and co-founder of Hanna-Barbera
Born
July 14th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2001 24 years ago — 90 years old

Co-founded Hanna-Barbera Productions, which became a significant name in American animation. Created iconic characters and series such as Tom and Jerry, The Flintstones, and Scooby-Doo. Directed many animated shows that shaped Saturday morning cartoons. Contributed to both the development of animation techniques and the popularization of animated television.

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William Harnett

Painter known for 19th-century realism
Born
August 10th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1892 133 years ago — 44 years old

An Irish-American painter and educator, this individual gained recognition for still life paintings that showcased meticulous detail and illusionistic techniques. Active in the late 19th century, the artworks often featured ordinary objects, including musical instruments, food, and everyday items, celebrating the beauty of the mundane. Harnett's approach to realism set a standard for future generations of artists. In addition to painting, he contributed to the art community through teaching, influencing many aspiring artists during his career.

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William Harrison Ainsworth

English author of historical novels
Born
1805 220 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1882 143 years ago — 77 years old

An English author specialized in historical novels during the 19th century. Ainsworth gained prominence with works that depicted the social and political issues of his time. He was a contemporary of other notable authors and contributed to literary magazines, enhancing public interest in serialized storytelling. His novels often drew on rich historical detail and featured intrigue and adventure, appealing to the reading public of the Victorian era.

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William Hartnell

English actor; original Doctor Who
Born
January 8th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 67 years old

An English actor achieved prominence for portraying the First Doctor in the long-running television series Doctor Who. The role, initiated in 1963, set the foundation for a franchise that would evolve over decades. Hartnell's performance was characterized by a unique blend of authority, warmth, and charm, capturing the complexities of the character. Before Doctor Who, a career included various stage performances and films, contributing to a robust theatrical presence. Hartnell's transition to television marked a significant turn in his career, with the role of the Doctor defining his legacy.

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William Harvey

English physician and discoverer of circulation
Born
April 1st, 1578 447 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1657 368 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1578, a physician conducted foundational research on the circulatory system. Through meticulous observation and experimentation, presented groundbreaking ideas on blood circulation, significantly altering the understanding of anatomy and physiology. Published "De Motu Cordis" in 1628, outlining the movement of blood through the heart and vessels. This work laid the groundwork for modern cardiology and physiology, influencing subsequent medical practices and theories.

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William Haselden

English cartoonist and illustrator
Born
December 3rd, 1872 152 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1953 71 years ago — 81 years old

Contributed to various publications in the early 20th century. Worked primarily for The Daily Mirror and was recognized for the use of humor in social commentary through illustrations. Additionally, contributions included political cartoons that critiqued figures and events of the time. Haselden utilized his talent to capture the cultural zeitgeist, making his work both engaging and reflective of contemporary issues.

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William Hathaway

American politician and lawyer
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
June 24th, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a United States Senator from Maine from 1973 to 1979. Worked as the state's Attorney General prior to this role. Participated in various committees during Senate tenure, focusing on issues like education and the environment. After leaving the Senate, continued to be involved in legal practice and public service.

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William Hayden English

American politician, U.S. Representative
Born
August 27th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
1896 129 years ago — 74 years old

Served as a U.S. Representative from Indiana from 1853 to 1859. Elected to the Democratic National Committee in 1860. Nominated as the Democratic vice-presidential candidate in 1880, running alongside General Winfield Scott Hancock. Had a significant role in local politics and maintained a position as a prominent figure within the Democratic Party during the 19th century.

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William Hazlitt

English essayist and literary critic
Born
April 10th, 1778 247 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1830 195 years ago — 52 years old

Born in 1778, this prominent English essayist and critic contributed significantly to literature during the early 19th century. Writing extensively on topics ranging from art to politics, produced influential works that examined human nature and society. His essays are marked by a personal touch and insightful observations. Engaged in the Romantic Movement, aligned with figures such as Coleridge and Wordsworth. His critical analyses shaped literary criticism in his era, and he often challenged existing norms through sharp commentary.

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William H. Bonney

American gunfighter and outlaw
Died
July 14th, 1881 144 years ago — None years old

Born in the late 1850s, a notorious gunfighter operated in the American West during the late 19th century. Engaged in disputes with lawmen and became involved with various outlaw gangs. Gained fame through violent confrontations and his ability to elude capture. Died in 1881 at the age of 21 after a confrontation with law enforcement in New Mexico.

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William H. Dana

American astronaut and engineer
Born
November 3rd, 1930 95 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old

An engineer and astronaut with significant contributions to space exploration, played a vital role in human spaceflight missions. Participated in the Skylab program, overseeing science payload operations and engaging in experiments. Worked with NASA, enhancing spacecraft systems and safety measures. After retirement, contributed to aerospace engineering in various capacities.

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William H. Donaldson

American businessman and SEC chairman
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 93 years old

Held the position of Chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from 2003 to 2005. Oversaw significant regulatory reforms during a time of heightened scrutiny of corporate governance. Established initiatives aimed at improving transparency and investor confidence in financial markets. Instrumental in developing policies that strengthened corporate accountability and disclosure practices.

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