What Happened This Year 2001

People Who Died in 2001

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 112 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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Billy Liddell

Footballer with Liverpool FC acclaim
Born
January 10th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Scotland, played professional football primarily as a winger for Liverpool FC from 1939 to 1961. Gained recognition for exceptional skill and versatility on the field. Contributed significantly to Liverpool's success in domestic competitions, particularly during the 1940s and 1950s. Earned a reputation as one of the club's all-time greats and won multiple league titles and FA Cups. Represented the national team, earning numerous caps, and played in significant international fixtures.

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Soraya Esfandiary-Bakhtiari

Princess of Iran and royal figure
Born
June 22nd, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 69 years old

Born into a prominent Iranian family, she became the wife of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran, in 1951. The marriage attracted significant international attention. However, it ended in divorce in 1958, after which she lived in exile. Throughout her life, she engaged in various philanthropic activities and sought to raise awareness about the social issues in Iran. She maintained connections with European society and the cultural elite, often attending high-profile events. Soraya retained her title of princess until her death.

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John T. Biggers

American painter of African heritage
Born
April 13th, 1924 101 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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Lennart Atterwall

Swedish javelin thrower Olympic medalist
Born
March 26th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 90 years old

Competed in javelin throwing, achieving notable success in the 1930s. Secured a bronze medal at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Set national records that highlighted skill and technique in the sport. Participated in various international competitions representing Sweden.

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Rufus Thomas

R&B singer-songwriter and performer
Born
March 26th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1917, a prominent R&B singer and songwriter contributed significantly to the genre throughout the mid-20th century. Achieved national recognition with the hit single 'Walking the Dog' released in 1963, which became an enduring classic. Established a career that spanned several decades, marked by a vibrant performance style and engaging stage presence. Recorded multiple albums and became a staple at live music events, influencing the development of soul and funk music. Continued to perform and foster musical talent until the 1990s, leaving a legacy within the music industry.

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Gregory Corso

American poet and beat generation figure
Born
March 26th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in the Beat Generation, contributed significantly to American poetry. Published several collections, including 'Gasoline,' which showcased innovative forms and vivid imagery. Associated with fellow poets such as Allen Ginsberg and Lawrence Ferlinghetti, often explored themes of love, death, and spirituality. Participated in the literary scene of the 1950s and 1960s, which reshaped American literature. Received various accolades for contributions to poetry and was influential in promoting literary movements.

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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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