All the People

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

Wolfgang Loitzl

Austrian ski jumper Olympic medalist
Born
January 13th, 1980 45 years ago

Competed in ski jumping, primarily in the 2000s. Secured a gold medal in the team event at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin. Achieved numerous podium finishes in World Cup events while representing Austria. Notable for contributions to the Austrian ski jumping team.

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Wolfgang Lüth

German naval commander during WWII
Born
October 15th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1945 80 years ago — 31 years old

Served in the Kriegsmarine during World War II. Achieved the rank of Korvettenkapitän and commanded several U-boats. Participated in the Battle of the Atlantic, conducting multiple successful patrols against Allied shipping. Recognized for leadership and tactical skills in submarine warfare.

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Wolfgang Menzel

German poet and literary critic
Born
June 26th, 1798 227 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1798, this figure contributed to the German literary scene as a poet and critic. Menzel played a significant role in the literary movements of his time, engaging with the works of contemporary authors and fostering discussions on literature. His criticism often focused on German Romanticism, as he sought to promote national literature. Menzel worked on various publications, nurturing the appreciation of literature within German-speaking communities. He also wrote essays and critiques, helping to shape literary tastes and preferences during the 19th century.

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Wolfgang Musculus

German Theologian and Reformer
Born
September 10th, 1497 527 years ago
Died
1563 462 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent theologian and reformer during the Protestant Reformation, contributed significantly to the theological debates of his time. Joined the Reformation movement in Germany and became associated with the city of Heidelberg. Authored several works on theology, particularly focused on issues such as the sacraments, ecclesiology, and christology. His lectures and writings influenced many contemporaries and shaped Reformation thought.

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Wolfgang of Regensburg

German bishop and saint
Died
October 31st, 994 1030 years ago — None years old

A German bishop and saint served as the Bishop of Regensburg. Instrumental in promoting Christianity in Eastern Europe, particularly through missionary work. Established several monasteries and schools, which aided in the religious education of the region. His efforts significantly contributed to the spread of the Christian faith during the 10th century. Wolfgang's life was marked by a commitment to both spirituality and education, reflecting his role as both a spiritual leader and an educator.

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Wolfgang Paul

German physicist and Nobel laureate
Born
August 10th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1993 32 years ago — 80 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of physics, particularly in the area of ion capture techniques. Developed the Paul trap, which allowed for the trapping of ions using electromagnetic fields. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1989 for advancements in ion trapping and its applications in precision spectroscopy. Held various academic positions, influencing future generations of physicists.

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Wolfgang Pauli

Physicist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
April 25th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1958 66 years ago — 58 years old

A physicist and academic contributed significantly to quantum mechanics and theoretical physics. Pauli formulated the Pauli exclusion principle, which states that no two fermions can occupy the same quantum state within a quantum system. In 1945, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for the discovery of the exclusion principle. Worked at institutions such as the University of Zurich and the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, where influences in physics were widely acknowledged. His theories have had lasting implications in quantum theory and particle physics.

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Wolfgang Petersen

Film director of 'Das Boot' and 'Air Force One'
Born
March 14th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 81 years old

A German-American director, producer, and screenwriter, notable for contributions to cinematic storytelling. Achieved international recognition with the war film 'Das Boot', which provided a stark portrayal of life aboard a German U-boat during World War II. Directed the successful action-thriller 'Air Force One', featuring Harrison Ford as the U.S. President. Also directed 'The Perfect Storm', a drama focusing on the struggles of a fishing crew caught in a massive storm. Served as an influential figure in film during the late 20th century, blending intense narratives with high production values.

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Wolfgang Puck

Celebrity chef and restaurateur
Born
July 8th, 1949 76 years ago

An Austrian-American chef and entrepreneur, developed a new style of cooking that combined French techniques with Asian and Californian influences. Opened the celebrated restaurant Spago in Beverly Hills in 1982, which earned multiple awards. Authored several cookbooks and starred in numerous cooking shows, bringing culinary arts to a wider audience. Expanded culinary empire by launching catering services and a line of kitchen appliances.

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Wolfgang Reitherman

Animator and director for Disney films
Born
June 26th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1985 40 years ago — 75 years old

An animator, director, and producer, contributed significantly to animation at Walt Disney Productions. Began career as an animator on classics such as 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' and 'Pinocchio'. Directed acclaimed films including 'The Jungle Book' and 'The Aristocats', showcasing talent in storytelling and character development. Played a pivotal role in shaping the Disney animated feature style during the mid-20th century. Oversaw many successful projects, leaving a lasting legacy in the animation industry.

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Wolfgang Rihm

Composer and educator with orchestral works
Born
March 13th, 1952 73 years ago

A prominent composer and educator, contributions include a wide range of works for orchestra, chamber music, and opera. Engaged in teaching, uplifting the next generation of musicians. Rihm’s compositions reflect a blend of traditional and contemporary styles, achieving recognition in both the academic and musical worlds. He has served as a professor and has been involved in various educational initiatives to promote contemporary music.

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Wolfgang Sawallisch

Pianist and Conductor with Berlin Philharmonic
Born
August 26th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent pianist and conductor, recognized for contributions to classical music. Served as musical director of the Munich Philharmonic, where tenure from 1993 to 2001 highlighted significant orchestral performances. Conducted prestigious opera houses, including the Vienna State Opera and the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. Known for interpretations of Richard Strauss and other German composers, brought forth clarity and depth in orchestral music during concert performances and recordings. Maintained a long-term collaboration with the Berlin Philharmonic, enhancing the orchestra's repertoire and public recognition.

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