What Happened This Year 2002

People Who Died in 2002

Armand Zildjian

Businessman, founded Avedis Zildjian Company
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2002 22 years ago — 81 years old

Founded the Avedis Zildjian Company, a leading manufacturer of cymbals. Played a crucial role in promoting the use of quality cymbals in various music genres, particularly in jazz and rock. Expanded the company’s reach internationally, ensuring its products became prevalent among professional musicians. Contributed to the legacy of the family business, which has been manufacturing cymbals since the 17th century.

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George Roy Hill

American director of 'Butch Cassidy'
Born
December 20th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2002 22 years ago — 81 years old

Acclaimed director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to American cinema during the 20th century. Major works include classics such as 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' and 'The Sting', both of which received critical and commercial success. 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' became a cultural phenomenon, blending humor with action in a Western setting. 'The Sting' showcased an intricate plot with memorable performances and won seven Academy Awards. Hill's work often involved collaboration with notable actors, enhancing the storytelling through engaging character development and direction.

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Mary Brian

American actress from silent films
Born
February 17th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2002 22 years ago — 96 years old

Began a career in silent films in the 1920s, transitioning to talkies with notable performances. Starred in films such as 'The Family Secret' and 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney'. Represented a significant figure during the silent film era and the shift to sound films in Hollywood. Continued to perform in various film and television roles through the mid-20th century.

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Mary Wesley

English author of bestselling novels
Born
June 24th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2002 22 years ago — 90 years old

An English author, contributed significantly to literature with a focus on human relationships and social themes. Began writing later in life and achieved commercial success after the age of seventy. Published several popular novels including 'Jumping the Queue', 'The Camomile Lawn', and 'A Vintage Affair'. Wesley's work often explored the complexities of love and family dynamics.

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Eleanor J. Gibson

American psychologist and academic
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2002 22 years ago — 92 years old

Served as a prominent psychologist specializing in perceptual development and learning. Contributed significantly to the understanding of visual perception through groundbreaking experiments. Established the 'visual cliff' experiment, studying depth perception in infants and animals. Influenced educational psychology and developmental science, shaping theories on how children learn about their environment.

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Kevin MacMichael

Guitarist and songwriter for Coney Hatch
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2002 22 years ago — 51 years old

Canadian guitarist and songwriter gained recognition as a member of the rock band Coney Hatch. The band achieved commercial success in the 1980s, releasing several albums that featured hits on mainstream rock charts. MacMichael contributed significantly to the band's sound, showcasing his skills as a guitarist and songwriter. He later worked as a producer for various artists, expanding his influence within the music industry. His work is characterized by energetic guitar riffs and melodic songwriting, which has left a lasting impression on fans of the genre.

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Richard Harris

Irish actor, starred in Gladiator
Born
October 1st, 1930 94 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2011 13 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent Irish actor, he gained acclaim for performances in film and theater. Early career included significant roles in plays and films in the 1960s. Achieved international recognition for performances in 'This Sporting Life' and 'The Field'. Later starred as Albus Dumbledore in 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone' and 'Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets'. Also appeared in 'Gladiator' as Marcus Aurelius, showcasing a range of acting skills that spanned several decades. Harris's distinctive voice and commanding presence made a lasting impression in the industry.

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Oluf Reed-Olsen

Norwegian resistance pilot during WWII
Born
July 8th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 84 years old

Served as a pilot during World War II and was a significant member of the Norwegian resistance. Participated in operations that helped undermine Nazi control in Norway. Engaged in various missions that included transporting agents and supplies. After the war, continued to contribute to discussions and documentation surrounding the resistance efforts in Norway, highlighting the importance of strategic air operations in the fight against oppression.

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Joan Littlewood

Theatre director and playwright
Born
October 6th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent British theatre director and playwright, contributions spanned several decades, particularly in the mid-20th century. Founded the Theatre Workshop in 1945, which became influential in British theatre. Achieved recognition for innovative productions that combined social commentary with entertainment. Pioneered working-class themes and collaborated with emerging theatre talents. Directed the groundbreaking musical 'Oh What a Lovely War!' which satirized the First World War and featured a mix of comedy and tragedy. Advocated for the importance of accessible theatre and inspired future generations of performers.

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