What Happened This Year 2002

People Who Died in 2002

Sándor Mátrai

Hungarian footballer with national team caps
Born
November 20th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2002 24 years ago — 70 years old

A Hungarian footballer played as a midfielder, having a significant career primarily in the 1950s and 1960s. Competed for clubs like Ferencváros and gained recognition for representing Hungary in international matches. Contributed to the team's efforts in major competitions, showcasing skills and strategic play that drew attention within the football community. His tenure included participation in the 1958 FIFA World Cup.

Continue Reading

Conrad L. Raiford

Baseball player and civil rights activist
Born
December 27th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
2002 24 years ago — 95 years old

A baseball player and civil rights activist, made contributions to both sports and social justice. Played as an outfielder in the 1920s and 1930s, primarily with the Baltimore Black Sox in the Negro Leagues. Later dedicated efforts to civil rights, advocating for racial equality in sports and society. Involved in various community initiatives and worked to promote opportunities for African Americans in baseball and beyond.

Continue Reading

George Bullard

American baseball player, catcher
Born
October 24th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2002 24 years ago — 74 years old

A baseball player active from 1947 to 1954, primarily served as a catcher in Major League Baseball. Played for the Chicago White Sox and the Kansas City Athletics. Contributed to the team's efforts during a transformative period in the sport. After a brief career, transitioned to coaching and developing young talent in baseball.

Continue Reading

Lilian

Princess of Réthy
Born
November 28th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2002 24 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1916, served as Princess of Réthy by marriage. Spent many years in the public eye, representing royal interests and engaging in various charitable endeavors. Maintained a presence in cultural and social events within society. Had a significant influence on the Belgian royal family and participated in public duties. Contributed to humanitarian causes, emphasizing welfare and support for the less fortunate.

Continue Reading

Raoul Remy

French professional cyclist
Born
October 25th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2002 24 years ago — 83 years old

A professional cyclist competed in road racing events during the mid-20th century. Participated in the prestigious Tour de France and achieved notable placements. Specialized in endurance racing and demonstrated significant skill in mountainous stages. Contributed to the sport through performances that earned recognition among peers.

Continue Reading

Sohn Kee-chung

South Korean Olympic marathon runner
Born
August 29th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
2002 24 years ago — 90 years old

Achieved first place in the 1936 Berlin Olympic marathon, marking a historic moment for South Korea in athletics. Sohn participated in the 1935 Far Eastern Championship Games, securing the gold medal in the marathon event. Besides Olympic fame, he became a significant figure in Korean running history and was influential in promoting athletics in post-war South Korea. After retirement, Sohn contributed to sports as a coach and official.

Continue Reading

Helen Dodson Prince

American astronomer and academic
Born
December 31st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
2002 24 years ago — 97 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy, particularly in stellar classification and the understanding of variable stars. Held a prominent academic position at the University of California, Berkeley, where research focused on the spectral analysis of stars. Actively involved in educational initiatives that advanced the study of astronomy and supported women in science during a time of limited opportunities. Also served as a consultant on various scientific projects and published numerous research papers that enriched the academic community.

Continue Reading

Juan García Esquivel

Pianist and composer of exotic lounge music
Born
January 20th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
2002 24 years ago — 84 years old

A Mexican pianist, composer, and bandleader who pioneered the genre of Exotica music. Developed a unique sound by blending traditional Latin music with jazz and pop elements. Gained popularity in the 1950s through innovative arrangements and use of studio techniques. His albums, particularly 'Other Worlds' and 'Esquivel! In a Little Black Book', showcased an experimental approach to music that incorporated playful and lush orchestration. Achieved a resurgence in popularity in the 1990s due to a revival of interest in mid-century pop culture and music, leading to renewed appreciation for his work.

Continue Reading

Edvaldo Alves de Santa Rosa

Brazilian footballer, World Cup champion
Born
March 26th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2002 24 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent figure in Brazilian football, achieved significant success during a prolific career as a forward. Played for clubs including Palmeiras and the Brazilian national team. Contributed to Brazil's victory in the 1958 FIFA World Cup, showcasing exceptional skills and contributing to Brazil's reputation as a football powerhouse. Played in the top tier of Brazilian football and earned a place among the greats of the game during the era.

Continue Reading