All the People

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

William H. Illingworth

Photographer known for landscapes
Born
September 20th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
1893 132 years ago — 49 years old

Born in England, a photographer became prominent in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Specializing in landscape photography, his works captured the natural beauty of America, particularly the western regions. Illingworth contributed to the photographic documentation of national parks and wilderness areas. His techniques and compositions influenced the field of outdoor photography and helped establish standards in the genre. He also published a number of his photographs, many of which featured the dramatic landscapes of California and the Sierra Nevada. His images were characterized by keen attention to light and shadow, showcasing the grandeur of the American wilderness.

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William H. Macy

Actor with acclaimed roles in film and TV
Born
March 13th, 1950 75 years ago

An American actor, director, and screenwriter, prominent in film and television. Gained recognition for roles in 'Fargo' as Jerry Lundegaard and in the acclaimed series 'Shameless' as Frank Gallagher. Received multiple award nominations throughout the career, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

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William H. McNeill

Historian and author of 'Plagues and Peoples'
Born
October 31st, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 99 years old

Born in 1917, a Canadian-American historian contributed significantly to the field of history through the analysis of the impact of disease on human societies. 'Plagues and Peoples' explored the effects of pandemics across history, emphasizing the interplay between human societies and biological factors. He served as a professor at the University of Chicago, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in historical research. His scholarship often drew connections between environmental factors and human history, showcasing a wide-ranging understanding of historical narratives.

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William Hobson

New Zealand Governor and soldier
Born
September 26th, 1792 233 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1842 183 years ago — 49 years old

A soldier and politician originated from Ireland. Served as the first Governor of New Zealand from 1840 until death in 1842. His tenure included the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, which established British sovereignty over New Zealand. Contributed to the organization of the New Zealand government and the establishment of law and order in the new colony.

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William Hogarth

Painter and critic of social commentary
Born
November 10th, 1697 328 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1764 261 years ago — 66 years old

An English painter and illustrator, played a significant role in the development of narrative painting in the 18th century. Developed a distinctive style that combined morality with detailed storytelling, often critiquing social issues of the time. Produced numerous series of paintings, engravings, and drawings that depicted contemporary life and society, influencing both art and popular culture. Alongside painting, contributed writings on art criticism, advocating for standards in art production and education.

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William Hogenson

American sprinter and Olympic athlete
Born
October 26th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
October 14th, 1965 60 years ago — 80 years old

Competed in sprinting events during the early 20th century. Represented the United States in the 1908 Summer Olympics held in London. Specialized in the 100 meter and 200 meter sprints. Achieved notable success at the national level, securing championships in various competitions throughout his athletic career.

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William Holden

American actor in Sunset Boulevard
Born
April 17th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1981 44 years ago — 63 years old

An accomplished actor emerged in the 1940s, achieving widespread recognition for performances in films such as 'Sunset Boulevard' and 'Stalag 17'. Crafted a career characterized by strong performances in both drama and comedy, earning an Academy Award for Best Actor for the role in 'Stalag 17'. Transitioned from film to television late in career, contributing to various projects in the medium. Remained a prominent figure in Hollywood until the mid-1980s.

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William Holman

Politician, 19th Premier of New South Wales
Born
August 4th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
June 5th, 1934 91 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the 19th Premier of New South Wales from 1910 to 1913. Contributed to the establishment of public utilities and advanced social reforms during tenure. Advocated for labor rights and played a significant role in the development of the Australian Labor Party. Held various positions within the New South Wales Parliament.

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William Holman Hunt

English painter and Pre-Raphaelite founder
Born
April 2nd, 1827 198 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1910 115 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1827 in England, a prominent painter and one of the founders of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood emerged. This group aimed to return to the detail, intense colors, and complex compositions of art before Raphael. Often focused on themes drawn from literature and religion, works showcased meticulous attention to detail and vivid imagery. Major works include 'The Light of the World' and 'The Awakening Conscience', which illustrate a strong narrative quality and moral undertones. Later in his career, served as a soldier during the Crimean War, where he observed the effects of war and its aftermath.

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William Holmes McGuffey

American author of McGuffey Readers
Born
September 23rd, 1800 225 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 73 years old

An American author and academic, McGuffey played a significant role in the education sector during the 19th century. He developed the McGuffey Readers, a series of educational textbooks, which became widely adopted in schools across the United States. These readers were instrumental in teaching literacy and moral values to generations of American children. As a professor and later president of a college, McGuffey contributed to higher education as well. His works reflected the educational philosophies of his time and helped standardize reading materials.

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William Hooker

Botanist and academic in plant sciences
Born
July 6th, 1785 240 years ago
Died
1865 160 years ago — 80 years old

An English botanist and academic, this individual contributed significantly to the field of botany during the 19th century. Appointed as professor of botany at the University of Glasgow, he established a botanical garden that became a center for plant studies. His vast work includes the comprehensive 'British Flora,' which cataloged the native plant species of Britain. He also served as director of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, advancing the study and classification of plants.

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William Hooper

American politician and signer of Declaration
Born
June 28th, 1742 283 years ago
Died
1790 235 years ago — 48 years old

Born in 1742, a prominent figure during the American Revolution, held various roles as a physician, lawyer, and politician. Represented North Carolina at the Continental Congress, playing a significant role in U.S. independence. Served as a delegate to the Second Continental Congress, Hooper signed the Declaration of Independence. After the Revolutionary War, he continued to serve in the North Carolina State Legislature.

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