What Happened This Year 2002

People Who Died in 2002

Ivan Illich

Austrian priest and philosopher.
Born
September 4th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2002 22 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1926, this Austrian priest and philosopher was a prominent critic of modern institutions and proposed alternative forms of education and social organization. He served as a Roman Catholic priest, but later distanced himself from the Church hierarchy, advocating for a more decentralized approach to education and healthcare. His most influential work, 'Deschooling Society', argued against traditional education systems, promoting self-directed learning and the role of informal education. Throughout his life, he emphasized the importance of community and human-scale solutions to social issues, critiquing industrial society's impact on human relationships. He continued to write and speak on topics related to education, technology, and social change until his death in 2002.

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Glenn Quinn

American actor known for 'Angel'
Born
May 28th, 1970 54 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 2002 22 years ago — 32 years old

An American actor gained prominence for roles in television shows, including the character Doyle in 'Angel'. Early career included a role in 'Roseanne' as Mark Healy. His performances in these series established a significant presence on screen. Quinn appeared in various other productions during his career, showing versatility across different genres.

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Ne Win

Burmese Army General and President
Born
May 14th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2002 22 years ago — 92 years old

Served as an army general and politician, leading Burma as its fourth president. Assumed control of the country through a military coup in 1962, instituting a one-party socialist state. Focused on nationalization and central planning, implementing policies that significantly altered the economy. Remained a dominant figure in Burmese politics until stepping down in 1988. His regime faced criticism for human rights violations and suppression of dissent.

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Roone Arledge

Sportscaster and producer, ABC Sports
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2002 22 years ago — 71 years old

A significant figure in television sports, contributed to the evolution of broadcast journalism. Served as president of ABC Sports and ABC News. Pioneered the concept of wide world of sports and created innovative programming that transformed sports broadcasting. Instrumental in developing news magazine formats and blending entertainment with sports coverage.

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Philip Berrigan

American priest and anti-war activist
Born
October 5th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
December 6th, 2002 22 years ago — 79 years old

A Catholic priest and social activist, played a crucial role in anti-war movements during the Vietnam War era. Founded the Plowshares Movement, promoting nonviolent resistance to militarism and nuclear weapons. Coordinated protests and used civil disobedience to draw attention to issues of war and poverty. Participated in the destruction of draft files as a statement against the Vietnam War, which resulted in multiple arrests and prison sentences.

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Mary Hansen

Australian singer and musician.
Born
November 1st, 1966 58 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2002 22 years ago — 36 years old

Originated from Australia, this musician gained recognition in the music scene during the 1990s. Contributed significantly to the band Stereolab, known for merging pop with avant-garde and electronic music. Performed as a backing vocalist and played guitar, contributing to the band's distinctive sound. Released solo work and collaborated with various artists, showcasing versatility across genres. The untimely passing in 2002 marked a notable loss in the music community.

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Ian Hornak

Painter and sculptor, major exhibitions
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2002 22 years ago — 58 years old

An American painter and sculptor, created works that explored the interplay of abstraction and realism. Studied at the Art Students League of New York and established a distinct style characterized by vibrant colors and dynamic forms. Contributed significantly to the contemporary art scene during the late 20th century. Exhibited in numerous galleries and institutions across the United States.

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Dee Brown

Historian and author of 'Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee'
Born
February 29th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
December 12th, 2002 22 years ago — 94 years old

An American historian and author, contributed significantly to the documentation of Native American history and experiences. Published 'Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee' in 1970, which presented a detailed account of the injustices faced by Native Americans during westward expansion. The book utilized a narrative style, incorporating primary sources and eyewitness accounts, which elevated the discourse on Native American issues. Also authored several other works on American history and the plight of indigenous peoples.

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K. W. Devanayagam

Sri Lankan lawyer and Minister of Justice
Born
March 26th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2002 22 years ago — 92 years old

A Sri Lankan lawyer and politician, served as the 10th Minister of Justice. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Sri Lanka during the mid-20th century. Engaged in legal practices and contributed to legislative reforms. Participated actively in parliamentary proceedings and discussions regarding justice and legal frameworks in the country.

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