What Happened This Year 2001

People Who Died in 2001

Maria Gorokhovskaya

Gymnast and Olympic gold medalist
Born
October 17th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 80 years old

Competitor in artistic gymnastics, participated in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, achieving remarkable success. Secured multiple medals at international competitions, showcasing exceptional talent. Transitioned to judging and coaching, contributing to the development of gymnastics in Israel after immigrating from Russia.

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Kimberly Anne Walker

American film and television actress
Born
June 19th, 1968 56 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 33 years old

An actress most recognized for performances in film and television. Gained popularity for the role of Heather Chandler in the 1989 film 'Heathers'. Appeared in 'The Stand' miniseries, based on Stephen King's novel. Also worked on various television series and made guest appearances.

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Garnet Bailey

Ice Hockey Player and Scout
Born
June 13th, 1948 76 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 53 years old

Born in Canada, became a professional ice hockey player in the NHL. Played for the Boston Bruins, Los Angeles Kings, and New York Islanders throughout the 1970s and early 1980s. Transitioned to scouting after retiring from professional play and contributed to talent development in the sport. His career in professional hockey spanned over a decade, and he was later involved in various scouting roles, evaluating talent for teams in the league until untimely passing in 2008.

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Phoolan Devi

Indian politician and lawyer
Born
August 10th, 1963 61 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 38 years old

A prominent figure in Indian politics, played a significant role in advocating for women's rights and addressing social justice issues. Entered politics after a tumultuous life that included experiences as a bandit in the Chambal Valley. Elected to the Lok Sabha in 1996 as a member of the Samajwadi Party. Worked as a member of parliament representing the Mirzapur constituency in Uttar Pradesh. Focused on issues affecting marginalized communities and women.

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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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Dorothy Burr Thompson

Archaeologist and art historian
Born
August 19th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 101 years old

This individual contributed significantly to the field of archaeology and art history, focusing on ancient cultures and artifacts. Extensive research on the art and architecture of ancient Greece and Rome highlighted the importance of historical context in artistic evaluation. This person's fieldwork in Italy and Greece provided valuable insights into the cultural heritage of these regions. Publications included analyses and interpretations of various archaeological findings, enriching the academic discourse surrounding ancient civilizations. Teaching roles at esteemed institutions helped to educate future generations of archaeologists and art historians.

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Bob Buhl

Baseball player and All-Star pitcher
Born
August 12th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 73 years old

Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball for teams including the Chicago Cubs and the Milwaukee Braves. Achieved significant success during the 1960 season, earning a selection to the All-Star Game. Concluded career with a total of 166 wins and 157 losses, including notable performances in multiple seasons. Represented a key asset in the Braves' rotation during their 1957 World Series championship victory.

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Billy Higgins

Drummer and educator in jazz music
Born
October 11th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 65 years old

An influential American drummer and educator, contributed significantly to the jazz genre. Played with notable artists including Ornette Coleman and Charlie Haden. Emphasized the importance of rhythm and improvisation in drumming. Worked extensively as an educator, sharing knowledge with students and young musicians. Recorded numerous albums and participated in several acclaimed projects throughout a career spanning decades.

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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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