What Happened This Year 2001

People Who Died in 2001

Harrison A. Williams

American politician and lawyer
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2001 23 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a United States Senator from New Jersey from 1979 to 1982. Before his Senate career, held various positions within New Jersey's state government, including serving in the New Jersey General Assembly. Played a significant role in several legislative initiatives and was involved in various committees while in office. In 1982, resigned from the Senate amid a federal investigation. After leaving office, continued to practice law.

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Marcelle Ferron

Painter and stained glass artist
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2001 23 years ago — 77 years old

A Canadian painter and stained glass artist, this individual played a significant role in the world of art through contributions to the automodernist movement. A member of the 'Les Automatistes' group, which focused on spontaneous and abstract art, this artist's work explored themes of light and color, influencing many contemporaries. The involvement in public art projects included numerous prominent stained glass installations in churches and public buildings, notably a large stained glass window at the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste in Montreal. Her dedication to both painting and stained glass artistry had a lasting effect on the Canadian art scene.

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Norman Granz

Record producer and jazz promoter
Born
August 6th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2001 23 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1918, a significant figure in the world of jazz music, particularly recognized for founding the Verve Records label. Helped to establish the careers of many prominent jazz musicians and played a crucial role in promoting their work. Managed iconic performances and jazz festivals, showcasing talent across the globe. Advocated for civil rights within the music industry, ensuring that musicians received fair treatment. His contributions facilitated the accessibility of jazz to wider audiences, blending various styles and artists.

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Mary Kay Ash

Businesswoman, founder of Mary Kay Cosmetics
Born
May 12th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2001 23 years ago — 83 years old

Started a cosmetic company in 1963, focusing on empowering women through entrepreneurship. Developed a marketing model emphasizing personal relationships and direct sales. Established a foundation supporting cancer research and women’s economic empowerment. Authored self-help books sharing insights on business and personal achievement.

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Mary Whitehouse

English educator and moral campaigner
Born
June 13th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 2001 23 years ago — 91 years old

An English educator and activist established the National Viewers' and Readers' Association, advocating for responsible broadcasting standards. Emphasized the impact of media on morality and sought to reduce explicit content in television and films. Engaged in debates regarding public broadcasting policies, leading campaigns against perceived immorality in media. Participated in various public discussions, positioning moral values at the forefront of cultural discourse.

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Bo Belinsky

Baseball player and pitcher
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 2001 23 years ago — 65 years old

A left-handed pitcher played for several Major League Baseball teams during the 1960s. Debuted with the Los Angeles Angels in 1962, achieving a milestone as the first pitcher in Major League history to win a game on his birthday. Gained attention for his striking personality and off-field pursuits, including a notable stint as a celebrity during the 1960s. Concluded his MLB career with a record of 28 wins and 48 losses over six seasons and also played for teams like the Philadelphia Phillies and the Chicago White Sox.

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Nils-Aslak Valkeapää

Finnish singer and author of 'Siida'
Born
March 23rd, 1943 81 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2001 23 years ago — 58 years old

A prominent figure in Sámi culture, contributed significantly to the preservation and promotion of Sámi music and literature. Worked as a director and an author, focusing on the traditional and contemporary aspects of Sámi identity. Created works that highlight Sámi folklore and themes. The artistic expression incorporated in various forms, including performance and poetry, received attention both locally and internationally. Valkeapää's contributions emphasized the importance of cultural heritage and identity for the Sámi people.

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William Reid

Scottish singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
October 28th, 1958 66 years ago
Died
November 28th, 2001 23 years ago — 43 years old

A significant figure in the alternative rock scene, contributed to the formation of the influential band, The Jesus and Mary Chain. The group emerged in the mid-1980s and became associated with the noise pop genre. Notable for the iconic debut album 'Psychocandy', which showcased a blend of pop melodies and feedback-laden guitars. Played a crucial role in shaping the sound of the early indie music movement. Continued to create music with The Jesus and Mary Chain while also pursuing solo projects after the band's initial break-up in the late 1990s.

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George Harrison

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
February 25th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2001 23 years ago — 58 years old

A prominent musician, contributed to the Beatles as lead guitarist and vocalist on many tracks. Wrote and performed several classic songs, including 'Here Comes the Sun' and 'While My Guitar Gently Weeps.' After the Beatles disbanded, launched a successful solo career, releasing albums such as 'All Things Must Pass.' Engaged in film production, co-founding HandMade Films, which produced notable works, including 'Monty Python's Life of Brian.' Played a crucial role in popularizing Indian music in the West and incorporated spiritual themes in music, reflecting personal beliefs and interests.

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