All the People

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

William Rainey Marshall

American politician and governor
Born
1825 200 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1896 129 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the 5th Governor of Minnesota from 1866 to 1970. Played a significant role in shaping state policies and infrastructure during the post-Civil War period. Prior to governorship, engaged in banking and contributed to Minnesota's early economic development. Advocated for education and land reforms to support settlers and local communities. Continued participation in politics through various roles, including serving in the Minnesota Senate.

Continue Reading

William Ramsay

Scottish chemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
October 2nd, 1852 173 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1916 109 years ago — 63 years old

A Scottish chemist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, particularly in the study of noble gases. Conducted groundbreaking work on the identification and isolation of argon, neon, krypton, and xenon. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1904 for discoveries in the chemistry of rare gases. Served as a professor at University College London and held various academic positions throughout an extensive career.

Continue Reading

William Randolph Hearst

American publisher and politician
Born
April 29th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
1951 74 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1863, a prominent publisher and politician played a significant role in American media and politics. Founded the Hearst Corporation, which operated numerous newspapers and magazines across the United States. Used yellow journalism techniques to attract readership and increase sales. Served in the U.S. House of Representatives as a Democrat in the 1900s. His media empire included notable publications such as the San Francisco Examiner and the New York Journal, which competed for mass audiences and influenced public opinion.

Continue Reading

William Randolph Hearst Jr.

Journalist and publisher of Hearst
Born
January 27th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1993 32 years ago — 85 years old

Worked as a journalist and publisher, contributing to the legacy of the Hearst media empire. Served as the president of Hearst Corporation and played a pivotal role in the expansion and modernization of the company's operations. Influenced American journalism and publishing industries through innovative practices and widespread distribution of print media. Supported various philanthropic initiatives and contributed to the arts.

Continue Reading

William Raspberry

American journalist and academic critic
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent journalist and academic, this individual's career spanned several decades, primarily contributing to discussions on social and political issues. Associated with the Washington Post, columns provided analysis on various topics including race relations, education, and public policy. During the late 20th century, the individual also became an influential voice in journalism education, focusing on ethical reporting and critical thinking. The author's work received numerous accolades, reflecting a commitment to clarity and thought-provoking commentary.

Continue Reading

William R. Charette

American soldier, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2012 13 years ago — 80 years old

Served in the United States Army during the Korean War. Displayed exceptional bravery during the Battle of Pork Chop Hill in 1953 while serving with the 7th Infantry Division. Received the Medal of Honor for valor in action, recognizing extraordinary heroism in combat. After military service, continued to support veterans' initiatives and engaged in community service.

Continue Reading

William R. Day

American jurist and Secretary of State
Born
April 17th, 1849 176 years ago
Died
1923 102 years ago — 74 years old

This individual served as the 36th United States Secretary of State from 1898 to 1899. Before this role, served as a judge on the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio. His legal career included participation in significant cases and decisions. Engaged in politics as a member of the Republican Party and contributed to various public discussions during the late 19th century.

Continue Reading

William Redington Hewlett

Co-founder of Hewlett-Packard
Born
May 20th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 87 years old

An American engineer and businessman co-founded Hewlett-Packard in 1939, a pioneering company in the electronics industry known for quality computing and measurement devices. The company initially gained success with the production of audio oscillators. Under effective leadership, the business expanded its range of products, influencing the growth of Silicon Valley. Hewlett also served as a director of the board for several organizations and was involved in various philanthropic activities throughout his career. His contributions to the technology sector helped shape the landscape of modern computing.

Continue Reading

William Rees-Mogg

English journalist and public servant
Born
July 14th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2012 12 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the editor of The Times from 1967 to 1981. Contributed to British journalism with a focus on political and social commentary. Held positions in public service, including membership in the House of Lords. Authored several books on economics, politics, and society, articulating views on a range of topics.

Continue Reading

William Regal

Professional wrestler and trainer
Born
May 10th, 1968 57 years ago

A prominent English professional wrestler with a career spanning several decades. Started wrestling in the late 1980s and gained recognition in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), later known as World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). Competed in various promotions across the globe, including WCW and Japan. Served as a mentor and trainer for upcoming wrestlers, contributing to the development of talent in the industry. Regarded for technical wrestling ability and character work.

Continue Reading

William Rehnquist

Chief Justice of the United States
Born
October 1st, 1924 101 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2005 20 years ago — 80 years old

Served as the 16th Chief Justice of the United States from 1986 until 2005. Contributed to prominent Supreme Court cases and shaped legal opinions during tenure. Appointed to the Supreme Court in 1972 by President Nixon and later ascended to Chief Justice under President Reagan. Known for a conservative judicial philosophy and involvement in important decisions regarding state powers and federal authority.

Continue Reading

William Reid

Scottish singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
October 28th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
November 28th, 2001 23 years ago — 43 years old

A significant figure in the alternative rock scene, contributed to the formation of the influential band, The Jesus and Mary Chain. The group emerged in the mid-1980s and became associated with the noise pop genre. Notable for the iconic debut album 'Psychocandy', which showcased a blend of pop melodies and feedback-laden guitars. Played a crucial role in shaping the sound of the early indie music movement. Continued to create music with The Jesus and Mary Chain while also pursuing solo projects after the band's initial break-up in the late 1990s.

Continue Reading