What Happened This Year 2001

People Who Died in 2001

Meldrim Thomson Jr.

Publisher and Governor of New Hampshire
Born
March 8th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 89 years old

Served as the 74th Governor of New Hampshire from 1973 to 1979. Prior to his governorship, engaged in publishing and worked with various newspapers. Managed significant state issues during tenure, focusing on tax reforms and education policies. Advocated for free-market principles and limited government. Participated in various political activities and held influence within the Republican Party.

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Andy Phillip

Basketball player and coach
Born
March 7th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 79 years old

A professional basketball player and coach involved in the sport for several decades. Played as a guard in the NBA, particularly with the Chicago Stags. Transitioned into coaching and led several teams in the ABA. Recognized for contributions to basketball both as a player and a coach.

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Reo Stakis

Businessman and hotelier, Stakis Hotels
Born
March 25th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 88 years old

A businessman established a successful hotel chain in the United Kingdom. Originating from Cyprus and relocating to Scotland, he opened the first Stakis Hotel in the 1960s. This venture expanded rapidly, with numerous hotels operating across the UK. The business model focused on providing quality service at accessible prices. In 1998, the hotel group was sold to Hilton Hotels, marking a significant moment in the British hospitality sector. The legacy includes numerous innovations in hospitality and contributions to the UK's tourism industry.

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John T. Biggers

American painter of African heritage
Born
April 13th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 77 years old

An influential American painter specialized in representing African American culture and history through fine art. Played a significant role in the development of the African American artistic community, blending elements of social justice themes within artworks. Contributed greatly to various educational institutions and served as a professor at Texas Southern University, where he mentored future artists. Received several awards recognizing contributions to the art world and was instrumental in promoting the value of African heritage in the visual arts.

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Gaetano Cozzi

Italian historian and academic expert
Born
September 15th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 79 years old

This Italian historian and academic specialized in modern and contemporary history. Focused on the period of the Italian Renaissance and its impact on subsequent European history. Contributed significantly to the study of Italian historiography and the interpretation of historical events. Held a prominent academic position at the University of Venice, shaping future historians through teaching and mentorship. Authored several important texts that analyzed Italy's political and cultural evolution.

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O.C. Smith

R&B and jazz singer with hits like 'Little Green Apples'
Born
June 21st, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 69 years old

An American R&B and jazz singer, significant achievements occurred during the 1960s and 1970s. Gained recognition with the release of the hit single 'Little Green Apples' in 1968, which reached the top of the charts. Also recorded the popular song 'The Cover of the Rolling Stone.' Conducted live performances across various venues, showcasing a smooth vocal style and engaging stage presence. In addition to a successful recording career, united the genres of R&B and jazz effectively, attracting a wide audience.

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Herman Berlinski

Pianist, composer, conductor of symphonies
Born
August 18th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 91 years old

Born in Poland, a pianist, composer, and conductor, actively contributed to classical music in the United States. Studied in Paris under notable teachers and later moved to the U.S., where a significant part of the career unfolded. Achieved recognition for original compositions and orchestral works, as well as arranging pieces for various ensembles. Conducted several orchestras, promoting the performance of contemporary and traditional repertoire. Also served as an educator, teaching music at various institutions, and held a passion for nurturing future musicians.

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Princess Sophie of Greece and Denmark

Royalty and philanthropist
Born
June 26th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 87 years old

Born into European royalty in 1914, a member of the Greek and Danish royal families. This princess spent much of her life in Greece and became involved in various charitable activities. During her lifetime, she supported refugee welfare and health initiatives. The close ties to multiple royal families through marriage and her philanthropic efforts positioned her uniquely within the European aristocracy.

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Sidney Dillon Ripley

American ornithologist and academic
Born
September 20th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 88 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of ornithology through extensive research, field studies, and academic leadership. Served as the secretary of the Smithsonian Institution from 1964 to 1984, overseeing the institution's growth and development. Authored numerous publications, focusing on bird conservation and ecological studies. Advocated for environmental issues and contributed to the establishment of several national wildlife refuges.

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