What Happened This Year 2001

People Who Died in 2001

Ralph Burns

American songwriter and bandleader
Born
June 29th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent figure in American music, contributions spanned several genres including jazz and musical theater. Burns served as an arranger and conductor for major Broadway productions, significantly influencing the sound of the era. His work on the musical 'Sweet Charity' earned critical acclaim and showcased his innovative arrangements. Additionally, Burns composed for television and film, further establishing a versatile career. His talent as a pianist complemented his work as a bandleader, guiding orchestras during live performances.

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Gordon Freeth

Australian politician and foreign minister
Born
August 6th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 87 years old

Held the position of the 24th Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs. Served in the Australian House of Representatives from 1949 to 1969, representing the Liberal Party. Engaged in significant discussions around foreign policy during the post-war period. Known for his involvement in international affairs and contributions to the shaping of Australia's diplomatic relations.

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Abdulaziz al-Omari

Terrorist and Hijacker of Flight 11
Born
May 28th, 1979 46 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 22 years old

Born in Saudi Arabia, a hijacker involved in the September 11 attacks that targeted American Airlines Flight 11. The aircraft was hijacked on September 11, 2001, and crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City. The actions resulted in one of the deadliest attacks on U.S. soil and changed global security policies significantly.

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Davorin Popović

Bosnian singer-songwriter and composer
Born
September 23rd, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent figure in the music scene, this artist gained recognition for a career that spanned several decades, primarily in the pop and rock genres. Active from the 1960s until the early 2000s, this singer-songwriter became well-known for engaging performances and emotionally charged lyrics. Releasing multiple albums, the artist's works contributed significantly to the regional music landscape, particularly in the former Yugoslavia. The artist also participated in Eurovision Song Contest, representing Bosnia and Herzegovina with a strong vocal delivery.

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Barbara Olson

American journalist and author
Born
December 27th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 46 years old

A prominent journalist and author, this individual gained attention for her insightful commentary and reporting on legal and political matters. Graduated from the University of San Diego and finished a law degree at George Washington University. Worked as a federal prosecutor and later transitioned to media, becoming a national television commentator. Published works include ‘Hell to Pay: The Unfolding Story of Hillary Rodham Clinton’ and ‘The Final Days: The Last, Desperate Abuses of Power by the Clinton White House.’ Her career was cut short by the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

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Jelle Zijlstra

Dutch economist and Prime Minister
Born
August 27th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 83 years old

An economist and politician from the Netherlands, served as Prime Minister from 1967 to 1971. Played a significant role in Dutch economic policy during a period of economic growth and modernization. Also held the position of Minister of Finance and contributed to the establishment of the Netherlands Bank. His tenure was marked by initiatives to improve fiscal stability and economic reform.

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Hani Hanjour

Terrorist involved in September 11 attacks
Born
August 30th, 1972 52 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 29 years old

Born in Saudi Arabia in 1972, this individual became one of the key hijackers involved in the September 11 attacks in the United States. He was a member of al-Qaeda and participated in the coordinated terrorist plots that led to the hijacking of American Airlines Flight 77. The plane was flown into the Pentagon, resulting in significant loss of life and destruction. Prior to these events, this individual had a background in aviation, having received flight training in the United States. The actions taken on September 11, 2001, were part of a larger strategic plan orchestrated by al-Qaeda to target the U.S.

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Alexandra Adler

Austrian neurologist and psychologist
Born
September 24th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 100 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of neurology and psychology. Specialized in psychological assessment and research related to emotional disorders. Worked extensively on the psychophysical aspects of vision and perception. Held various academic positions and published influential papers that shaped psychological theory and practice. Associated with the development of psychotherapeutic techniques in the early to mid-20th century.

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Birendra

King of Nepal; United Nepal's monarchy
Born
December 28th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 56 years old

Ascended the throne in 1972, serving as the King of Nepal until his death in 2001. Held a significant role in maintaining the monarchy during a period of political turbulence and civil unrest. Promoted tourism and cultural heritage while advocating for unity among Nepal's diverse ethnic groups. Oversaw the introduction of a parliamentary system in the early 1990s, which marked a significant shift in governance.

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