What Happened This Year 2002
People Who Died in 2002
Armand Zildjian
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.
Continue ReadingGeorge Roy Hill
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.
Continue ReadingMary Wesley
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.
Continue ReadingMary Brian
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.
Continue ReadingEleanor J. Gibson
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.
Continue ReadingKevin MacMichael
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.
Continue ReadingRichard Harris
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.
Continue ReadingLaurent Schwartz
Originated in France, a mathematician contributed significantly to the development of distribution theory. Worked on the theory of distributions and Fourier transforms, which provided a framework for understanding generalized functions. Involved in the application of mathematics to various fields, including physics and engineering. Held a position at the University of Paris and produced influential academic publications throughout his career. Actively participated in political discussions, particularly regarding the role of mathematics in society. Recognized with several awards, including the CNRS Gold Medal.
Continue ReadingMal Waldron
A significant figure in jazz music, this individual contributed to the genre as both a pianist and a composer. Gaining prominence in the 1950s, the person collaborated with notable musicians including Billie Holiday and John Coltrane. As a bandleader, numerous albums were recorded, showcasing the ability to blend avant-garde jazz with elements of blues and gospel. Contributions to the music scene extended through various roles, including arranging and producing. Several compositions gained recognition and were performed by various jazz ensembles.
Continue Reading