What Happened This Year 2001

People Who Died in 2001

Ernie Freeman

Pianist and bandleader, 'The Ernie Freeman Combo'
Born
August 16th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1981 43 years ago — 58 years old

An accomplished American pianist and bandleader, active primarily during the mid-20th century. Led 'The Ernie Freeman Combo', which gained significant popularity. Worked as a session musician and contributed to numerous recordings across genres, including rock and rhythm and blues. Collaborated with various artists, enhancing the sound of their music in the 1950s and 1960s. Freeman's style and arrangements were influential during this period.

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Ray Walston

American actor in 'My Favorite Martian'
Born
November 2nd, 1914 110 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2001 24 years ago — 86 years old

An American actor recognized for work in television and film. Gained prominence for the role of Uncle Martin in the television series 'My Favorite Martian', which aired from 1963 to 1966. Received critical acclaim for performances in various theatrical productions. Nominated for a Tony Award for his role in 'Bells Are Ringing'. Appeared in numerous films including 'Apollo 13' and 'Fast Times at Ridgemont High'.

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William P. Rogers

American Secretary of State and lawyer
Born
June 23rd, 1913 111 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2001 24 years ago — 87 years old

Served as the 55th United States Secretary of State under President Richard Nixon from 1969 to 1973. Played a significant role in formulating foreign policy during a time of great international tension. Participated in the peace negotiations that led to the Paris Peace Accords in 1973, which aimed to establish peace in Vietnam. Worked as a lawyer and held various positions in public service, contributing to legal and governmental affairs throughout his career.

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Les Brown

Band Leader, Composer, 'Les Brown and His Band of Renown'
Born
March 14th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2001 24 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent American bandleader and composer, influential in the big band era. Founded 'Les Brown and His Band of Renown', contributing significantly to the popular music of the time. The band gained recognition for its performances in radio and television, especially during the 1940s and 1950s. Worked extensively with notable singers and musicians, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry. Received awards and accolades for contributions to music and entertainment, cementing a place in American cultural history.

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James Carr

Soul Singer with 'The Dark End of the Street'
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2001 24 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent soul singer from the United States, achieved recognition in the 1960s. Gained popularity with the release of 'The Dark End of the Street,' which became a significant hit. Recorded several albums and singles throughout his career, showcasing a deep, emotive vocal style that resonated with audiences. Despite facing challenges in his personal life and career, maintained a devoted following. Continued to perform and record music until his death in 2001.

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Denys Lasdun

Architect, co-designed Royal National Theatre
Born
September 8th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2001 24 years ago — 86 years old

An English architect focused on modernist architecture and design. Co-designed the Royal National Theatre in London, a landmark example of brutalist architecture. His work emphasized the relationship between buildings and their surroundings, often integrating landscape into architectural forms. Worked on various educational buildings, cultural institutions, and residential projects throughout the UK. Received the Royal Institute of British Architects Gold Medal and was a member of the Royal Academy.

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Luiz Bonfá

Brazilian guitarist and composer of 'Manha de Carnaval'
Born
October 17th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 78 years old

A Brazilian guitarist and composer, contributed significantly to the bossa nova genre. Bonfá's music combined elements of samba and jazz, influencing generations of musicians. He gained international recognition for the composition 'Manhã de Carnaval,' featured in the film 'Black Orpheus.' Throughout his career, Bonfá released numerous albums, showcasing his unique guitar style and composition skills. His works remain popular among musicians and fans of Brazilian music.

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William Redington Hewlett

Co-founder of Hewlett-Packard
Born
May 20th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 87 years old

An American engineer and businessman co-founded Hewlett-Packard in 1939, a pioneering company in the electronics industry known for quality computing and measurement devices. The company initially gained success with the production of audio oscillators. Under effective leadership, the business expanded its range of products, influencing the growth of Silicon Valley. Hewlett also served as a director of the board for several organizations and was involved in various philanthropic activities throughout his career. His contributions to the technology sector helped shape the landscape of modern computing.

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Leo Marks

English cryptographer and playwright
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2001 24 years ago — 81 years old

A cryptographer, playwright, and screenwriter, this individual significantly contributed to the field of cryptography during World War II. Worked for the British Special Operations Executive, developing methods for secure communication. Later transitioned to playwriting and screenwriting, with a notable focus on themes of espionage and intelligence. Authored plays such as 'The Mind of Mr. Soames' and screenwrote the film 'Picnic at Hanging Rock'.

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