What Happened This Year 2001

People Who Died in 2001

Bonnie Lee Bakley

Model, wife of actor Robert Blake
Born
1956 69 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2001 23 years ago — 45 years old

A model and actress, engaged in various modeling assignments and small film roles. Gained public attention mainly through marriage to actor Robert Blake. Involved in several legal disputes and controversies surrounding her personal life.

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Clifton Hillegass

American publisher, founded CliffsNotes
Born
April 18th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2001 23 years ago — 83 years old

Founded CliffsNotes, a series of study guides that simplify classic literature and academic subjects, influencing education across the United States. The concept originated from a desire to aid students in understanding complex texts. These study aids became widely used by students for exam preparation and classwork assistance. CliffsNotes became synonymous with literature study guides, eventually expanding into various subjects and educational resources. The brand maintained a prominent presence in American education for decades.

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Morris Graves

American painter and educator
Born
August 28th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2001 23 years ago — 90 years old

Morris Graves was an American painter and educator known for his contributions to the American art scene in the 20th century. Primarily linked to the Northwest School of artists, Graves focused on unique combinations of nature and spirituality in his works. His paintings often featured motifs from the natural world, characterized by a vivid use of color and abstraction. Graves was influential in the development of modern art in the Pacific Northwest and served as a teacher, sharing his artistic vision with students and emerging artists. His works have been showcased in various exhibitions, solidifying his legacy in American art history.

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Douglas Adams

English author of The Hitchhiker's Guide
Born
March 11th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2001 23 years ago — 49 years old

An English author and playwright contributed significantly to science fiction literature. The most notable work is 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy,' originally a radio series and later adapted into books, television, and film. The series gained a large following and is recognized for its wit and satirical take on science fiction and modern society. Adams also wrote 'Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency,' which showcased his humor and inventive storytelling. In addition to writing, he worked as a script editor and contributed to several projects, including the television series 'Doctor Who.' Adams passed away in 2001.

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Alexei Tupolev

Engineer of the Tupolev Tu-144 jet
Born
May 20th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2001 23 years ago — 75 years old

An engineer specialized in aviation design, and contributed significant advancements in aerospace technology. Designed the Tupolev Tu-144, the first supersonic transport aircraft, which made its maiden flight in 1968 and became a symbol of Soviet aeronautics. Played a key role in the development of various military and civilian aircraft during a career that spanned several decades. Engaged in research and development focused on improving aircraft performance and safety, leading to innovative designs that influenced future aviation.

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Perry Como

Singer and television host with hit songs
Born
May 18th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2001 23 years ago — 88 years old

An influential figure in American music and television, this individual rose to prominence in the mid-20th century. Known for smooth vocal delivery and relaxed style, contributed to the popularity of popular music and variety shows. Hosted 'The Perry Como Show' from 1955 to 1966, which showcased a range of performances and welcomed numerous guest stars. Recorded numerous hits, achieving substantial success on the Billboard charts, and earned multiple Grammy Awards throughout a long-lasting career.

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Jason Miller

American actor and playwright
Born
April 22nd, 1939 85 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2001 23 years ago — 62 years old

Played Father Karras in 'The Exorcist' and won a Tony Award for playwriting for 'That Championship Season'. Worked as a director and educator, contributing to theater through teaching and performance. Involved in various productions, both on stage and in film, shaping the landscape of American theater during the 20th century.

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Frank G. Slaughter

Physician and author of medical fiction
Born
February 25th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2001 23 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1908, this American authored numerous novels that blended medical themes with engaging storytelling. A medical doctor by training, focused on writing from the 1950s onward, producing works that highlighted the intricacies of the medical profession and personal stories of survival. Several of these novels became bestsellers, appealing to a wide audience and bringing attention to various medical conditions and ethical dilemmas. Additionally, served as a medical consultant for television programs, which helped bridge the gap between real medical practice and entertainment.

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Jacques-Louis Lions

Mathematician and partial differential equations expert
Born
May 3rd, 1928 96 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2001 23 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed to the field of mathematics with a focus on partial differential equations and control theory. Served as a professor at the Collège de France. Collaborated with various researchers to advance mathematical theories and techniques. Authored several influential papers and books that shaped modern analysis and numerical methods.

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