All the People

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

William Kolehmainen

Runner and Olympic coach
Born
December 30th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1967 58 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1887, a Finnish-American long-distance runner and coach excelled in athletic competition during the early 20th century. Competed in the 1912 Summer Olympics, earning a bronze medal in the 5000 meters. After his athletic career, transitioned to coaching, influencing future generations of runners. Contributed to the development of distance running techniques in the United States, promoting the sport through various coaching positions and mentorship.

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William Kristol

Political analyst and publishing expert
Born
December 23rd, 1952 72 years ago

A prominent journalist and political commentator, this individual co-founded the Weekly Standard, a conservative magazine that played a significant role in shaping political discourse in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Regularly appeared on television as a pundit, contributing insights on U.S. politics and policy. Active in various political initiatives and organizations over the decades, including serving in the Reagan administration. This individual also established a think tank focused on conservative principles and policy development.

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William Kunstler

Lawyer and activist for civil rights
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1995 30 years ago — 76 years old

Practiced law primarily in the United States, focusing on civil rights cases and defending high-profile clients. Represented the Black Panthers, the American Indian Movement, and was involved in the trial of the Chicago Seven. Emphasized the importance of freedom of speech and civil liberties throughout a legal career that spanned several decades. Co-founded the Center for Constitutional Rights, advocating for marginalized communities and fighting against government oppression.

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William Lamb

British Prime Minister and politician
Born
March 15th, 1779 246 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1848 176 years ago — 69 years old

Served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1835 to 1841. Played a significant role in Victorian politics as 2nd Viscount Melbourne. Held positions including Home Secretary and leader of the Whig party. Provided leadership during a period of reform and social change, promoting issues such as civil liberties and parliamentary reform.

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William Lambarde

English antiquarian and politician
Born
October 18th, 1536 489 years ago
Died
1601 424 years ago — 65 years old

An antiquarian, Lambarde contributed significantly to the study of English law and history. He served as the Member of Parliament for West Looe and authored important historical texts. His major work, 'Perambulation of Kent,' detailed the history and geography of Kent. Through meticulous research, he collected and preserved historical documents, enhancing the understanding of English local history and law during the Elizabethan era.

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William Lane

Journalist and founder of New Australia
Born
September 6th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 56 years old

Born in England and later moving to Australia, engaged in journalism and social reform. Founded the New Australia settlement in Paraguay, promoting a communal lifestyle based on socialist principles. Contributed to several publications, advocating for workers' rights and political change.

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William Lassell

Astronomer; discovered moons of planets
Born
June 18th, 1799 226 years ago
Died
1880 145 years ago — 81 years old

An English astronomer and merchant, dedicated a significant portion of life to astronomical observation. Constructed a top-quality 24-inch reflector telescope in 1840, allowing for major advancements in the field. Discovered Neptune's moons, Triton and Nereid, in 1846 and 1949 respectively. Made contributions to the study of binary stars and the structure of comets. Participated in the development of the field of astrophotography, which allowed for the capture of celestial images.

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William Laud

Archbishop and academic leader
Born
October 7th, 1573 452 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1645 380 years ago — 71 years old

An English archbishop, served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1633 until execution in 1645. Promoted the Anglican Church's structure and doctrine, striving to unify the church during tumultuous times. Involved in various conflicts with the Puritans, which led to significant tensions within England. As a scholar, contributed to the theological discourse of the 17th century, publishing numerous writings on church governance and religious practices.

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William Laurel Harris

American painter and author of landscapes
Born
February 18th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
1924 101 years ago — 54 years old

A prominent painter and author, this individual specialized in landscape paintings, capturing the beauty of nature through meticulous brushwork and vibrant colors. He was a member of the National Academy of Design and actively participated in the art community during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His artistic contributions were showcased in various exhibitions, earning recognition among peers and art enthusiasts. Additionally, authored several books focusing on artistic techniques and the principles of painting, aimed at educating aspiring artists. His works are held in numerous collections, reflecting a commitment to the craft of painting.

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William Law

English priest and theologian
Born
1686 339 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1761 264 years ago — 75 years old

An English priest and theologian influenced by the mysticism of his time, played a significant role in promoting practical spirituality and piety in the 18th century. Authored several important works on Christian spiritual life, with the most notable being 'A Serious Call to a Devout and Holy Life.' Law's writings emphasized the importance of personal devotion and moral conduct. His views on religion were shaped by a close adherence to the teachings of the early Christian church. After a conflict with the Church of England over his Nonjuror beliefs, he shifted to a more private life of spiritual contemplation and writing, leaving a lasting legacy on devotional literature.

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William Lawless

Irish revolutionary and French general
Born
1772 253 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1824 200 years ago — 52 years old

Involvement in the Irish revolutionary movement occurred during the late 18th century. Fought for the cause of Irish independence, aligning with groups aiming to end British rule over Ireland. After the failures of the revolution, relocated to France and became a general in the French Army. Participated in campaigns during the Napoleonic Wars, demonstrating military leadership and skill.

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William Lawrence Bragg

Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics recipient
Born
March 31st, 1890 135 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1971 54 years ago — 81 years old

An Australian-English physicist, significant contributions were made to the field of X-ray crystallography. Work alongside father William Henry Bragg led to the development of Bragg's Law, which describes the reflection of X-rays from crystal surfaces. This foundational research established the scientific understanding of atomic structures and paved the way for advancements in various fields, including chemistry and biology. Bragg received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1915, becoming the youngest laureate at that time. Academic positions were held at several prestigious institutions, including the University of Adelaide and the University of Cambridge.

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