All the People

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

William John Bowser

Canadian politician and lawyer
Born
December 3rd, 1867 157 years ago
Died
1933 92 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the 17th Premier of British Columbia from 1924 to 1928, representing the Conservative Party. Elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in 1916, contributed to provincial governance during a period of economic challenges. Led initiatives to improve infrastructure in British Columbia and focused on education reform. Oversaw governmental responses to issues like unemployment and housing.

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William John Macquorn Rankine

Scottish physicist and engineer with Rankine cycle
Born
July 5th, 1820 205 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1872 152 years ago — 52 years old

Contributions included work in thermodynamics, particularly the formulation of the Rankine cycle, which assesses the efficiency of heat engines. Developed concepts in the area of civil engineering and made significant strides in the understanding of energy and its transformations. Authored several influential texts that laid the groundwork for modern thermodynamic principles and provided a comprehensive theory of heat engines. Rankine's work bridged the gap between physics and engineering, fostering advancements in both fields.

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William John McNaughton

American bishop
Born
December 7th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 94 years old

Ordained as a bishop in the Episcopal Church, played significant roles in various dioceses throughout the United States. Served as a bishop in areas marked by growth in the church. Contributed to education and social justice initiatives, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and pastoral care.

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William Johnson

American painter with Harlem Renaissance roots
Born
March 18th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent painter associated with the Harlem Renaissance, contributed significantly to the representation of African American culture through visual art. Focused on themes of community life, family, and cultural identity. Developed a distinctive style combining modernist and folk influences. Featured in multiple exhibitions throughout his career, gaining recognition for unique approaches to color and form.

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William John Wills

Explorer and surgeon of the Victorian era
Born
January 5th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
1861 164 years ago — 27 years old

An English surgeon and explorer, contributions included participating in the first successful expedition to cross Australia from south to north. Joined the Victorian Exploring Expedition led by Robert O'Hara Burke in 1860. The journey faced extreme hardships, including harsh weather and scarce supplies. Wills became a key figure in the ill-fated venture, which ultimately ended in tragedy. The expedition lost many members, including Wills, while seeking relief and returning to their starting point. Posthumously, he gained recognition for the challenges faced during the expedition and the ultimate sacrifice made in pursuit of exploration.

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William Jones

Mathematician and academic known for notation
Born
September 28th, 1746 279 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1749 276 years ago — 2 years old

A prominent Welsh mathematician and academic, contributed significantly to the field of mathematics in the early 18th century. Introduced the notation for pi (π) to represent the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter. Served as an advocate for the study of mathematics through his writings and correspondence with other notable mathematicians. Actively participated in the establishment of mathematical societies in Britain and played a crucial role in promoting mathematical knowledge and education.

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William Joseph Behr

German publicist and academic
Born
August 26th, 1775 250 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1851 174 years ago — 75 years old

A publicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of journalism and public discourse in Germany. Behr was involved in the publication of various periodicals and dedicated efforts to the advancement of literary criticism. His work fostered a greater appreciation for literature and the press. Through teaching and writing, he influenced emerging journalists and supported the development of professional standards in the field.

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William Joseph Chaminade

Founder of the Society of Mary
Born
April 8th, 1761 264 years ago
Died
1850 175 years ago — 89 years old

A French priest established the Society of Mary in 1817, aiming to promote the Catholic faith and education. Chaminade dedicated his efforts to the spiritual formation of young people and the establishment of educational institutions. The society grew, contributing to the development of Catholic education in various countries. His work focused on strengthening the faith among laypeople and integrating educational efforts with religious life. His legacy includes the establishment of numerous schools and the propagation of Marian spirituality.

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William Joyce

Pro-Axis propaganda broadcaster
Born
April 24th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1946 79 years ago — 39 years old

A broadcaster with a focus on pro-Axis propaganda during World War II, migrated to Germany and began his career with the Nazi regime. Gained attention through radio broadcasts directed at British audiences, creating a distinct identity as 'Lord Haw-Haw'. Captured after the war, faced a trial for treason in the UK.

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William Juxon

English Archbishop and academic leader
Born
1582 443 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1663 362 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the Bishop of London and later as Archbishop of Canterbury. Played a significant role in the Church of England during the Stuart period, particularly during the English Civil War. Acted as a royalist supporter and counselor to King Charles I, overseeing the King's funeral following his execution. Contributed to the academic community as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford and was involved in ecclesiastical governance throughout his career. Influenced church policies and educational standards during a time of significant political and religious upheaval.

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William Kapell

American Pianist with notable concert performances
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1953 72 years ago — 31 years old

Acclaimed as a talented American pianist, notable for concert performances in the mid-20th century. Gained recognition for exceptional interpretations of classical piano works. Achieved fame through performances at prestigious venues and competitions, including the 1940 inaugural concert at Carnegie Hall. Tragically died in a plane crash at the age of 31, resulting in significant loss to the classical music community.

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William Karlsson

Ice Hockey Player, Stanley Cup Champion
Born
January 8th, 1993 32 years ago

Professional ice hockey player played as a center in the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in 2011, Karlsson later joined the Columbus Blue Jackets before signing with the Vegas Golden Knights in 2017. He played a significant role in the Golden Knights’ inaugural season, contributing to their success in reaching the Stanley Cup Final. Karlsson showcased offensive skills and playmaking abilities, solidifying his position as a key player on the team.

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