All the People

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

Willis Haviland Carrier

Engineer and inventor of air conditioning
Born
1876 149 years ago
Died
October 7th, 1950 75 years ago — 74 years old

An engineer and inventor, developed the modern air conditioning system in 1902, transforming climate control in indoor spaces. Created the first air conditioning unit to improve printing quality at a plant, which led to widespread adoption in various industries. Established the Carrier Engineering Corporation, which became a leading manufacturer of HVAC systems. Contributed to advancements in refrigeration technology, influencing modern comfort and industrial processes.

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Willis H. O'Brien

Animator and director of 'King Kong'
Born
March 2nd, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 76 years old

Pioneered stop-motion animation techniques. Worked on major films, including the original 'King Kong' in 1933, setting new standards in visual effects. Collaborated with various studios throughout his career, including RKO Pictures. Contributed to the art of animation and storytelling through innovative designs and meticulous craftsmanship.

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Willis Lamb

American physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 12th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 95 years old

A physicist and academic contributed to the field of quantum electronics. Developed the Lamb shift phenomenon in hydrogen, which provided significant insights into quantum electrodynamics. Held faculty positions at several institutions, including the California Institute of Technology. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1955 for work on the interaction of photons with electrons.

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Willis Reed

Basketball player and NBA champion
Born
June 25th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2023 2 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent basketball player achieved success with the New York Knicks in the National Basketball Association. Played as a center and was a standout player during the 1960s and 1970s. Led the Knicks to two NBA championships in 1970 and 1973. Received the NBA Most Valuable Player Award in 1970, recognized for outstanding performance during the regular season. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1982, cementing a legacy as one of the greats in the sport.

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Willis R. Whitney

American chemist and inventor
Born
August 22nd, 1868 157 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 90 years old

Contributions to the field of chemistry were significant, particularly in the area of chemical engineering. Conducted pioneering work in the development of synthetic fibers. Served as a leader at General Electric, overseeing research and development initiatives. Published numerous articles and patents that advanced chemical manufacturing processes and materials science.

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Willi Stoph

German politician and Prime Minister
Born
July 9th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
April 13th, 1999 26 years ago — 84 years old

An engineer and politician served as the 2nd Prime Minister of East Germany from 1964 to 1973 and again from 1976 to 1979. During the tenure, focused on the development of the GDR's economy and industrial production. Held various positions within the Socialist Unity Party and was involved in numerous governmental reforms that aimed to strengthen the state's control over the economy and society. Played a significant role in the Cold War context, representing East Germany in political negotiations.

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Willi Unsoeld

Mountaineer and educator, Everest ascent
Born
October 5th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1979 46 years ago — 52 years old

An influential mountaineer and educator contributed significantly to the climbing community. Played a pivotal role in the first successful American ascent of Mount Everest in 1963 as part of the American Everest Expedition. Engaged in mountaineering education, sharing knowledge and skills with aspiring climbers. Involved with the National Outdoor Leadership School, promoting outdoor education and environmental awareness. Worked as a professor at Evergreen State College, fostering a deep appreciation for nature among students.

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Willi Wülbeck

German middle-distance runner Olympic medalist
Born
December 18th, 1954 70 years ago

Achieved prominence as a middle-distance runner specializing in the 800 meters. Secured a silver medal at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Won multiple championships, including the European Athletics Championships in 1982 and the World Championship in 1983. Competed for the SC Köln club, establishing a legacy in German athletics during the 1980s.

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Will James

American author and illustrator of cattle culture
Born
July 6th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1942 83 years ago — 50 years old

An American author and illustrator contributed significantly to literature depicting the cowboy culture of the early 20th century. Best recognized for works such as 'Smoky, the Cowhorse,' which earned a Newbery Medal in 1927, the author illustrated many of his own stories, bringing vivid depictions of the American West to life. The works often reflected the ruggedness and romanticism of cowboy life, blending storytelling with artistic representation. This individual published multiple books that resonated with audiences interested in Western mythology, capturing the essence of ranching and horsemanship.

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Will Jennings

American songwriter; 'Tears in Heaven'
Born
June 27th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
September 6th, 2024 1 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent songwriter, contributions include collaborations with various artists predominantly in the pop and rock genres. Collaborated with Eric Clapton on the iconic song 'Tears in Heaven', which won Grammy Awards. Worked with other notable musicians, enriching their works with lyrical depth. Wrote songs for events, films, and documentaries, receiving critical acclaim for versatility in songwriting. The body of work includes collaborations with artists such as Joe Cocker and Roberta Flack.

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Will Johnson

Canadian soccer player, MLS All-Star
Born
January 21st, 1987 38 years ago

A Canadian soccer player played primarily as a midfielder. Raised in Ontario, he began his professional career with the Toronto FC in Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2006. Johnson later played for several clubs, including Real Salt Lake, with whom he won the MLS Cup in 2009. His performance earned recognition, leading to an appearance in the 2012 MLS All-Star Game. Internationally, he represented Canada at various levels, including the senior national team. Throughout his career, he was known for his work ethic and versatility on the field.

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Will Keane

Irish footballer; played for Manchester United
Born
January 11th, 1993 32 years ago

Born in 1993, a professional footballer played primarily as a forward. Developed within the youth system of Manchester United and made his first team debut in 2011. Played for several clubs in England, including Wigan Athletic and Hull City. Achieved recognition for performances in the English Football League. Participated in international competitions representing the Republic of Ireland at various youth levels.

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