All the People

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

William Whitelaw

Scottish-English Deputy Prime Minister
Born
June 28th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent political figure in the United Kingdom, served as Deputy Prime Minister under Margaret Thatcher from 1979 to 1981. Held the position of Secretary of State for Northern Ireland from 1970 to 1972, playing a significant role during a tumultuous period in the region's history. He was instrumental in peace negotiations and legislative developments during his tenure. Elevated to the peerage as the 1st Viscount Whitelaw in 1990, continued to influence British politics until his retirement.

Continue Reading

William Whitelock

English politician and MP
Born
December 27th, 1636 388 years ago
Died
1717 308 years ago — 81 years old

Served as a Member of Parliament during the mid-17th century, contributing to the political landscape of England. Played a significant role in the Parliament during the English Civil War and the subsequent Interregnum. Participated in the drafting of various political documents and was involved in debates concerning governance and legislation. His political career spanned turbulent times, reflecting the complexities of the era.

Continue Reading

William Whiting Boardman

Judge and politician in America
Born
October 10th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1871 154 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1794, this individual served as a judge and held several political offices throughout his career. He practiced law and was appointed to various judicial roles. This individual was actively involved in the governance and legal frameworks of the time, contributing to shaping the judicial system. His tenure in politics was marked by a focus on law and order, reflecting the values of the period. This person's work in the legal field established a legacy within the state’s judicial landscape.

Continue Reading

William Wilberforce

Philanthropist and abolitionist
Born
August 24th, 1759 266 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1833 192 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent English politician and philanthropist, dedicated efforts focused on the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade. Elected to Parliament in 1780, campaigned for social reform, including animal welfare and education for the poor. Instrumental in the formation of the Society for Effecting the Abolition of the Slave Trade, which presented numerous petitions to Parliament. In 1807, legislation passed that prohibited the slave trade within the British Empire, a significant milestone in global human rights.

Continue Reading

William Wilfred Campbell

Canadian poet and author of 'Lilith'
Born
1858 167 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1918 107 years ago — 60 years old

This individual was a Canadian poet and author who contributed significantly to Canadian literature. Born in 1860, he became a prominent figure in the literary scene of his time. His poetry often reflected themes of nature and spirituality. Campbell's most notable work includes the poem collection 'Lilith' which captivated readers with its depth and imagery. He was also involved in the promotion of Canadian literature and served as the editor of the 'Canadian Magazine'. Campbell's influence persisted through subsequent generations of Canadian poets and writers.

Continue Reading

William Wilkerson

American publisher and businessman
Born
1890 135 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1962 63 years ago — 72 years old

Played a significant role in the publishing industry as the founder of The Hollywood Reporter, a publication that became an essential source of information for the film and entertainment sectors. Established the first modern trade paper in the industry, influencing how Hollywood operated and communicated. Developed a successful career as a businessman and publisher, contributing to the growth of entertainment journalism. Worked in various capacities, including those related to theatre and radio, further solidifying a presence in the media landscape.

Continue Reading

William Willett

English inventor of British Summer Time
Born
August 10th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1915 110 years ago — 58 years old

An English inventor proposed the concept of daylight saving time, which later became known as British Summer Time. Willett published a pamphlet in 1907 titled 'The Waste of Daylight' that outlined the benefits of shifting the clock forward in spring and back in autumn. The proposal aimed to make better use of daylight during the longer days of summer. Despite the initial resistance, the idea gained traction and was eventually implemented during World War I in 1916 for energy conservation. Willett's advocacy for this change significantly influenced time management practices in various countries.

Continue Reading

William Williams Pantycelyn

Welsh composer and hymn writer
Born
1717 308 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1791 234 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent Welsh composer and poet, he significantly contributed to the development of Welsh hymnody. His most famous work includes the hymn 'Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah'. Born in 1717, his writings played a crucial role in the Methodist revival in Wales. He also worked as a preacher and wrote numerous hymns that are still sung today in Welsh chapels.

Continue Reading

William Windom

American actor with a star role in "My World and Welcome To It"
Born
September 28th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 88 years old

An American actor, gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s with a career spanning television, film, and stage. Celebrated for versatility in character roles, portrayed a range of personalities in various productions. Achieved significant recognition for work on the television series "My World and Welcome To It," which won an Emmy Award. Also made guest appearances in well-known shows such as "The Twilight Zone" and had roles in films like "To Hell and Back."

Continue Reading

William Wirt

American lawyer and 9th U.S. Attorney General
Born
November 8th, 1772 253 years ago
Died
1834 191 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the 9th Attorney General of the United States from 1817 to 1829. Played a significant role in shaping early American legal frameworks and policies. Advocated for the federal government's authority and the Constitution's interpretation. Wrote extensively on legal and political matters, producing influential works in the early 19th century. His tenure marked significant developments in the United States legal system.

Continue Reading

William W. Momyer

American general and pilot
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2012 13 years ago — 96 years old

Served as a United States Air Force general, focusing on air operations during the Vietnam War. Held various leadership positions, demonstrating strategic planning in military tactics. Commanded the 7th Air Force, coordinating aerial missions in Southeast Asia. Recognized for contributions to air mobility and support, fostering advancements in air power.

Continue Reading

William Wordsworth

English Romantic poet
Born
April 7th, 1770 255 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1850 175 years ago — 80 years old

A leading figure of the Romantic movement, contributed significantly to English literature through poetry. Collaborated with Samuel Taylor Coleridge on 'Lyrical Ballads', which marked the beginning of the English Romantic age. Served as the Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom from 1843 until death. Influenced future generations with works celebrating nature and human emotion.

Continue Reading