All the People

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

William J. Casey

American politician and CIA director
Born
March 13th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1987 38 years ago — 74 years old

Served as the 13th Director of Central Intelligence from 1981 to 1987. Played a significant role in shaping U.S. intelligence policies during the Cold War and was involved in key operations in various international conflicts. Worked closely with several Administrations and was a critical figure in the intelligence community.

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William J. Castagna

American lawyer and federal judge
Born
June 25th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 96 years old

A prominent figure in the legal field, served as a United States district judge for the Middle District of Florida. Educated at the University of Florida and the University of Florida College of Law, engaged in private practice before his judicial appointment. Contributed to various legal writings and opinions, notable for overseeing significant cases in federal court.

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William J. Coyne

American politician and lawyer
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old

Served as a U.S. Representative for Pennsylvania from 1991 to 2003. Worked in the legal field before entering politics. Represented the 14th congressional district and was involved in various legislative initiatives. Played a key role in economic and community development within his district. Participated in public service and legal advocacy throughout his career.

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William J. Crowe

Admiral and U.S. Ambassador to UK
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2007 18 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a four-star admiral in the United States Navy, achieving the role of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 1985 to 1989. Oversaw military operations during the latter part of the Cold War and participated in policy development for military engagement. After retirement from military service, held the position of U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom from 1994 to 1997, engaging in diplomatic relations between the two countries at a critical time in global politics.

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William J. Donovan

American general and wartime leader
Born
January 1st, 1883 142 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1959 66 years ago — 76 years old

Served as a general during World War II and became the head of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), the precursor to the Central Intelligence Agency. Played a crucial role in coordinating intelligence operations and fostering collaboration among Allied forces. After the war, transitioned into a successful career in law and politics, contributing to various legal reforms and serving in different governmental roles. Published works include insights into intelligence and military strategy, showcasing the importance of espionage in warfare.

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William Jennings Bryan

American politician and Secretary of State
Born
March 19th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1925 100 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the 41st United States Secretary of State from 1913 to 1915. Promoted progressive policies, including women's suffrage and the regulation of monopolies. Ran for President of the United States three times in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Gained prominence for the 'Cross of Gold' speech delivered at the 1896 Democratic National Convention, advocating for the free coinage of silver.

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William Jervois

Governor of South Australia
Born
September 10th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1897 128 years ago — 75 years old

Born in England, served as an engineer and politician. Held the position of the 10th Governor of South Australia from 1877 to 1883. Prior to governance, contributed to military engineering in various locations, including significant work on fortifications. Oversaw the development of infrastructure and governance frameworks during tenure in South Australia.

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William Jessop

English engineer and canal builder
Born
January 23rd, 1745 280 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1814 210 years ago — 69 years old

An English engineer, contributed significantly to the development of civil engineering in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Specialized in the design and construction of waterways, particularly canals, and played a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution. Designed the innovative 'Jessop's Aqueduct', facilitating efficient water transport. Involved in the construction of several major canals, including the Grand Junction Canal and the Basingstoke Canal, influencing trade and transportation in Britain.

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William J. Fallon

American admiral and former commander
Born
December 30th, 1944 80 years ago

Raised in a military family, served in various capacities in the U.S. Navy, including as the commander of U.S. Central Command from 2007 to 2008. Played a pivotal role in overseeing military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan during his tenure. After retirement, contributed to military strategy discussions and held advisory roles in various defense-related organizations.

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William J. Hardee

American Civil War General
Born
October 12th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1815, a career started in the United States Army, achieving the rank of general during the American Civil War. Commanded Confederate forces in several battles, including the Battle of Shiloh and the Battle of Chattanooga. After the Civil War, served as an instructor at the Louisiana State University. Also worked on military strategy and tactics.

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William J. Jefferson

American politician and lawyer
Born
March 14th, 1947 78 years ago

Served as a U.S. Congressman representing Louisiana from 1991 to 2009. Played a role in various legislative initiatives during tenure, including efforts focused on economic development and education. In 2009, became the first sitting congressman indicted for corruption charges, leading to a conviction and sentence to prison.

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William Joel Blass

American soldier and politician
Born
October 19th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old

Served in the United States Army during World War II, participating in key operations. Held various legal roles after returning from military service, including working as an attorney. Elected to the Virginia House of Delegates, representing the 13th District for multiple terms. Throughout political career, focused on legislative issues and community engagement within the local region.

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