All the People

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

William Saroyan

American novelist and playwright
Born
August 31st, 1908 117 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1981 44 years ago — 72 years old

A significant writer during the 20th century, Saroyan authored numerous novels, plays, and short stories. He achieved recognition for works that depict the struggles and experiences of ordinary people. His most acclaimed works include the Pulitzer Prize-winning play 'The Time of Your Life' and the novel 'The Human Comedy'. Saroyan's writing often reflected his Armenian heritage and his experiences during the Great Depression. His unique narrative style combined realism with elements of joy and sorrow.

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William S. Burroughs

Novelist and essayist; 'Naked Lunch'
Born
February 5th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1997 28 years ago — 83 years old

An American novelist and essayist, contributed significantly to the Beat Generation of the 1950s. His most acclaimed work, 'Naked Lunch', published in 1959, features a non-linear narrative and explores themes of addiction, control, and societal critique. This controversial novel faced legal challenges and censorship but has since gained recognition as a seminal work of postmodern literature. Burroughs also experimented with cut-up writing techniques, influencing various artistic domains. He published several other notable works including 'Junky' and 'The Ticket That Exploded', and engaged in diverse artistic collaborations and countercultural movements throughout his life.

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William Schallert

American actor and Screen Actors Guild president
Born
July 6th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2016 9 years ago — 93 years old

An American actor and prominent figure in the entertainment industry, had a career spanning over six decades. Acted in film, television, and theater, and played notable roles in popular series. Served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1979 to 1981, advocating for the rights of actors during a transformative period in the industry. Participated in multiple television projects and films, establishing a recognizable presence on screen.

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William Schuman

Composer and educator, Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
August 4th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1992 33 years ago — 81 years old

An influential American composer and educator, contributed significantly to the field of classical music. Served as president of the Juilliard School from 1945 to 1961, shaping the education of many future musicians. Composed numerous orchestral works, choral pieces, and chamber music, often characterized by American themes and styles. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1941 for his symphonic work, which further established his reputation in the music world. His compositions often featured innovative rhythms and harmonies that reflected the culture of his time.

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William Schutz

Psychologist and academic leader
Born
December 19th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
November 9th, 2002 23 years ago — 76 years old

An American psychologist focused on group dynamics, interpersonal relationships, and social interaction. Contributions included the development of the FIRO (Fundamental Interpersonal Relations Orientation) theory, which explores how people's needs influence their behavior in groups. Worked as a professor at the University of California, Berkeley and authored numerous publications on psychology and human behavior. Established the Encounter Group movement, promoting personal growth through group interaction.

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William S. Clark

Colonel and politician in the U.S.
Born
July 31st, 1826 199 years ago
Died
1886 139 years ago — 60 years old

Graduated from Harvard University, served in the American Civil War as a colonel in the Union Army. Following the war, entered politics, representing Massachusetts in Congress. Advocated for veterans' rights and participated in various legislative committees. His post-war career focused on education reform and military affairs, leading to significant contributions within these fields.

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William Scranton

American politician and ambassador
Born
July 19th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 96 years old

Served as the 13th United States Ambassador to the United Nations from 1976 to 1977. Held the position of Governor of Pennsylvania from 1963 to 1967. Led significant efforts in international diplomacy during a critical period of the Cold War, advocating for U.S. interests. Played a role in the establishment of programs aimed at addressing domestic and international issues.

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William Scroggs

Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales
Born
1623 402 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1683 342 years ago — 60 years old

Served as a notable English judge and politician during the late 17th century. Held the influential position of Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales, presiding over significant legal matters of the time. Contributed to the development of the legal system and jurisprudence in England. Involved in various prominent trials that shaped public and legal opinion during that era.

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William Seabrook

Occultist and journalist, wrote 'The Magic Island'
Born
1884 141 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1945 80 years ago — 61 years old

An American journalist and occultist engaged in exploring various cultures, particularly those in the Caribbean. Conducted extensive studies on voodoo practices, providing insights into rituals and the beliefs surrounding them. Wrote influential works on the subject, including 'The Magic Island', which detailed experiences with Haitian voodoo. Also worked as a newspaper reporter, contributing to various publications. His explorations and writings contributed to a greater understanding of the mystical and supernatural elements in different cultures.

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William Sealy Gosset

English statistician with Student's t-test
Born
June 13th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
1937 88 years ago — 61 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of statistics, particularly in quality control and experimental design. Developed the t-test, a statistical method widely used for comparing means. Worked for the Guinness Brewery, where research on small sample statistics was essential for quality assessment. Published work under the pseudonym 'Student' to maintain anonymity while working in industry. His contributions laid the groundwork for modern statistical theory and practice.

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William Seawell

American general and military leader
Born
January 27th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1918, a prominent general served in the United States Army. Participated in various military operations throughout a notable career. Achieved the rank of major general, overseeing significant divisions and contributing to strategic military planning. Served in key leadership roles during the Cold War era, focusing on military preparedness and national security. Retired with a legacy of service that influenced military operations.

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William Sellers

Engineer and inventor of screw thread
Born
September 19th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
1905 120 years ago — 81 years old

An American engineer and inventor made significant contributions to the field of mechanical engineering. Developed the standardized screw thread in the 1850s, which greatly improved machinery assembly and manufacturing processes. Founded the Sellers Manufacturing Company in 1851, focusing on precision tools and machinery. Actively engaged in promoting engineering education and best practices within the industry.

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