What Happened This Year 2002

People Who Died in 2002

Fred Scolari

Basketball player for the Minneapolis Lakers
Born
March 1st, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 80 years old

A professional basketball player contributed to the game in the mid-20th century. Played for the Minneapolis Lakers during the early years of the NBA. Achieved notable success leading the team to multiple championships. Was recognized for shooting skills and overall gameplay, earning acknowledgment in basketball circles.

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Matt Dennis

Singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
February 11th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent figure in American music, played a significant role in the development of popular songs during the 1940s and 1950s. Composed notable works that blended elements of jazz, pop, and traditional standards. Achieved recognition as a talented pianist and vocalist, performing in various venues and on recordings. Collaborated with several artists and maintained a successful songwriting career.

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Ernest E. Debs

American politician and activist
Born
February 7th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 98 years old

A politician active in the American socialist movement, contributed significantly to labor rights and social justice. Served as a member of the Indiana House of Representatives and advocated for workers' rights and anti-war policies. Participated in numerous campaigns and helped organize various initiatives to promote socialism in the United States. His political activism aligned with labor movements, focusing on representing the working class in legislative matters.

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Jerome Biffle

American long jumper and coach
Born
March 20th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 74 years old

Biffle competed in long jump, representing the United States. Achieved notable success in his athletic career during the late 1940s and early 1950s. Also served as a coach, influencing the development of future long jump athletes through training and mentorship. His contributions to the sport extended beyond personal competition, as he dedicated time to coaching at various levels.

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Arthur Lyman

American jazz vibraphonist and marimbist
Born
February 2nd, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 70 years old

A significant figure in the jazz scene, a vibraphone and marimba player contributed to the popularization of the exotic sound of tropical jazz. Originating from Hawaii, he gained prominence in the 1950s and became associated with sunset lounges and tiki culture. His blend of jazz with influences from traditional Hawaiian music led to a distinctive style. Collaborating with notable artists, he formed the group The Arthur Lyman Group, which achieved commercial success and produced several albums catching the listener's interest with their unique sound. Lyman's music featured in various films and television shows, enhancing the tropical ambiance of the era.

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Daniel Pearl

Journalist and Wall Street Journal reporter
Born
October 10th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 39 years old

A journalist worked for the Wall Street Journal, covering international topics with a focus on South Asia. Researched and wrote articles regarding economic and political issues in the region. Kidnapped and murdered in Pakistan while investigating a story in 2002, which led to widespread condemnation and discussions about journalistic safety. The tragic event highlighted the dangers faced by journalists in conflict zones.

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Zypora Spaisman

Yiddish-language actress and producer
Born
January 21st, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 86 years old

Born in Poland, an influential midwife transitioned into acting and production in the American Yiddish theater. Immigrated to the United States and contributed significantly to the Yiddish stage in New York. Involved in numerous productions, she dedicated her life to preserving and promoting Yiddish culture through theater. Also participated in various community projects that focused on Jewish heritage and culture.

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Albert Mol

Dutch author and actor, wrote 'Jansen'
Born
January 3rd, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 85 years old

An author and actor, contributed significantly to Dutch literature and film. Authored books and plays that were well-received in the Netherlands. Gained recognition for the book 'Jansen', which showcased a unique perspective on life and relationships. In addition to writing, appeared in several Dutch films and television series, bolstering a career that bridged both writing and acting. Active in the arts for many years, reflecting cultural themes relevant to Dutch society.

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Stephen E. Ambrose

Historian and author of WWII works
Born
January 10th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent American historian focused on World War II, contributed significantly to the understanding of military and social history during this period. Authored several influential books, including 'Band of Brothers,' which detailed the experiences of Easy Company during the war. Served as a consultant and producer for the acclaimed HBO miniseries based on the book, which further popularized these historical narratives. Held teaching positions at the University of New Orleans, sharing expertise with students and engaging in historical research.

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