All the People

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

Woldemar Bargiel

German composer and educator
Born
October 3rd, 1828 196 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1897 128 years ago — 68 years old

A German composer and educator contributed significantly to the Romantic music repertoire. Studied under prominent composers, integrating classical traditions with innovative approaches. Held a teaching position at the Berlin Hochschule für Musik, influencing a generation of musicians. Focused on symphonic compositions, chamber music, and choral works, showcasing lyrical melodies and orchestral richness. Engaged in music life in Berlin, collaborating with notable contemporaries and performing compositions across Europe.

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Woldemar Voigt

German physicist and academic
Born
September 2nd, 1850 174 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1919 105 years ago — 69 years old

Contributions included work on the theory of elasticity and the study of wave propagation. Developed the concept of Voigt's continuum, which improved understanding of material behaviors under stress. Served as a professor at various universities, influencing the education of future scientists. Published significant papers and served on editorial boards of scientific journals.

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Wole Soyinka

Nigerian author and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 13th, 1934 91 years ago

An influential figure in literature, an author, poet, and playwright. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, the first African laureate. Soyinka's works often explore themes of oppression, tyranny, and cultural identity, reflecting his deep commitment to human rights and social justice. Notable works include plays such as "Death and the King's Horseman" and "A Dance of the Forests," along with his memoir "The Man Died," which recounts his experiences during Nigeria's civil unrest. Soyinka's activism led to imprisonment during dictatorship, making his literary voice a powerful instrument of resistance.

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Wolf Biermann

German singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
November 15th, 1936 88 years ago

Born in 1936, this artist gained prominence as a singer-songwriter and guitarist in East Germany, particularly noted for his folk songs that often contained political themes and critiques of the state. In the 1960s, his work received significant attention, leading to his exile from East Germany in 1976 due to his outspoken views against the government. Following his exile, continued to perform and publish music, achieving recognition in West Germany and beyond. His artistic contributions reflect a deep engagement with the cultural and political landscape of his time.

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Wolf Blitzer

Journalist and CNN anchor
Born
March 22nd, 1948 77 years ago

Born in 1948, this journalist has reported on significant global events and transitioned into prominent news production. He joined CNN in 1990, where he has anchored high-profile broadcasts, including The Situation Room. Coverage of major events such as the Gulf War and presidential elections has marked a substantial part of this journalist's career. He has conducted interviews with key government officials and covered pivotal moments in history, establishing a reputation for political reporting.

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Wolf-Dietrich Wilcke

German colonel and pilot in WWII
Born
March 11th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 31 years old

A German colonel and pilot served during World War II. Participated in aerial operations, gaining recognition for flying combat missions. Achieved the rank of colonel and was awarded the Knights Cross for bravery in action. Demonstrated skills in air combat and leadership throughout military service.

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Wolfe Tone

Irish rebel leader and revolutionary
Born
June 20th, 1763 262 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1798 226 years ago — 35 years old

A significant figure in the fight for Irish independence, this individual played a crucial role in the establishment of the Society of United Irishmen. The efforts aimed to create an independent Irish republic and included organizing insurrections against British rule. The 1798 Rebellion was a notable uprising that resulted in significant political and social changes in Ireland. This leader advocated for a secular government that recognized the rights of all citizens, regardless of religion. Captured during the rebellion, he died in prison.

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Wolfgang

Prince of Anhalt-Köthen
Born
August 1st, 1492 533 years ago
Died
1566 459 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1492, a German prince ruled over the principality of Anhalt-Köthen. Governed the region during the early years of the Protestant Reformation. Engaged with influential thinkers of the time, shaping local governance and religious policies. His reign contributed to the historical narrative of territorial princes in Germany.

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Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Composer of Classical music and operas
Born
January 27th, 1756 269 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1791 233 years ago — 35 years old

Born in Salzburg, this prolific composer and pianist created over 600 compositions across various genres, including symphonies, operas, chamber music, and choral works. His early exposure to music facilitated remarkable achievements from a young age, traveling through Europe to perform. Notable works include operas like 'The Marriage of Figaro,' 'Don Giovanni,' and 'The Magic Flute,' which remain cornerstones of the operatic repertoire. His contributions to the symphony, concerto, and sonata genres significantly shaped classical music, influencing countless composers after his time. Mozart's life was marked by financial struggles and a complex relationship with the musical establishment of his era, culminating in his untimely death at the age of 35. Despite this, his legacy endures, and his works continue to be celebrated worldwide.

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Wolfgang Borchert

German author and playwright
Born
May 20th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1947 77 years ago — 26 years old

An influential German author and playwright, who emerged in the post-World War II period. His most celebrated work, the play 'Draußen vor der Tür' (Outside in the Cold), addresses the existential struggles of returning soldiers. Borchert's writing reflects the trauma and disillusionment faced by individuals in a devastated Germany. His works, marked by existential themes and poignant language, sought to capture the zeitgeist of a war-torn society. Borchert's life was cut short by illness, but his literary contributions resonate in discussions of post-war literature.

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Wolfgang Dietrich of Castell-Remlingen

German nobleman and politician
Born
1641 384 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1709 316 years ago — 68 years old

Held the title of Count of Castell-Remlingen. Governed the region during a period marked by feudal complexities and local governance challenges. Was part of the German nobility that played a significant role in the political landscape of the time. Managed the affairs of his domain and engaged in various alliances and conflicts characteristic of 17th-century nobility. Made contributions to the local administration and participated in regional politics.

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Wolfgang Dremmler

Footballer and coach, FC Schalke 04
Born
July 12th, 1954 71 years ago

Played as a midfielder in professional football, primarily for FC Schalke 04. Accumulated significant achievements during a playing career spanning from the early 1970s into the mid-1980s. Transitioned to coaching after retiring as a player, leading teams in various leagues, including stints in Germany. Contributed to the development of young players and various club strategies.

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