What Happened This Year 2002

People Who Died in 2002

Lawrence Tierney

American actor in film and television
Born
March 15th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2002 23 years ago — 82 years old

An American actor gained recognition for portrayals of tough characters in film and television. Made his film debut in 1943 with 'The Devil Thumbs a Ride.' Achieved prominence in the 1940s and 1950s with performances in films like 'Born to Kill' and 'Reservoir Dogs.' Featured in television series including 'The Honeymooners' and 'Two and a Half Men.' His distinctive persona contributed to a lasting legacy in the film noir genre, influencing portrayals of antiheroes in subsequent cinema.

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Spike Milligan

Comedian, actor, and author of Q series
Born
April 16th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2002 23 years ago — 83 years old

Born in India, spent formative years in England and later Ireland. Served in the British Army during World War II, joining the Royal Artillery. Gained prominence as a comedian, most notably through the radio series 'The Goon Show', which had a significant influence on British comedy. Also wrote various humorous books and poetry, showcasing a unique style that blended absurdity and wit. Milligan's distinctive comedic voice and contributions to literature left a lasting legacy in the comedy genre.

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Mary Stuart

Actress and singer from 'The Secret Life of Bees'
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
February 28th, 2002 23 years ago — 76 years old

An American actress and singer gained recognition for roles in film and television. Early career included appearances in various shows, culminating in a prominent role in 'The Secret Life of Bees'. Worked in musical theater, showcasing vocal talent in several productions. Active in the entertainment industry until 2002.

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Helmut Zacharias

Violinist and composer from Germany
Born
January 27th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
February 28th, 2002 23 years ago — 82 years old

Born in Germany, this violinist and composer gained recognition for exceptional musical talent from an early age. He studied at the Berlin University of the Arts, eventually gaining acclaim for his innovative compositions and performances. Throughout his career, he collaborated with numerous orchestras and ensembles, showcasing a blend of classical and popular music styles. The artist also worked extensively in radio and television, making significant contributions to the music scene in Germany and beyond. His works spanned various genres and appealed to a wide audience, establishing a lasting legacy in the violin community.

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G. M. C. Balayogi

Indian politician and 12th Lok Sabha Speaker
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 2002 23 years ago — 51 years old

Served as a prominent Indian lawyer and politician. Held the position of the 12th Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 1998 until 1999, playing a crucial role in parliamentary proceedings. Represented the YSR Congress Party and was elected as a Member of Parliament for multiple terms. His political career included a focus on issues pertaining to his constituency and advocating for legislative reforms before his untimely death in 2002.

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Velibor Vasović

Footballer and manager of Red Star Belgrade
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2002 23 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent Serbian footballer and manager, contributed significantly to the sport during the mid-20th century. Played primarily as a defender, representing clubs such as Red Star Belgrade and Ajax. Achieved success in multiple domestic leagues and on the international stage. Transitioned to management after retiring from playing, continuing to influence Serbian football in a coaching capacity.

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James Tobin

Economist and Nobel Prize winner
Born
March 5th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
March 11th, 2002 23 years ago — 84 years old

An American economist and academic who contributed significantly to the field of economics, particularly in the areas of investment theory and monetary policy. Tobin developed the Tobin Tax, a proposed tax on financial transactions aimed at reducing speculation. He served on the faculty at Yale University and held various prestigious positions, including President of the American Economic Association. His scholarly work led to the formulation of the Tobin's Q theory, which describes the relationship between market value and replacement costs of assets. Tobin received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1981 for his analysis of financial markets and their relations to real investment.

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Spyros Kyprianou

Cypriot politician and 2nd President
Born
October 28th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2002 23 years ago — 69 years old

A lawyer and politician, held the office of the second President of Cyprus from 1977 to 1988. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Cyprus during his tenure, focusing on issues of national unity and security in the post-independence era. His presidency was marked by efforts to address the division of the island following the Turkish invasion in 1974. Before serving as President, held various political positions, including Minister of Foreign Affairs. After leaving office, remained active in politics until death in 2002.

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Jean-Paul Riopelle

Canadian painter and sculptor of great acclaim
Born
October 7th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2002 23 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1923, a painter and sculptor emerged as a key figure in Abstract Expressionism. He developed a unique style that combined elements of both painting and sculpture, often utilizing thick textures and vibrant colors. His works reflect a deep connection to nature and a range of emotions. Riopelle's career spanned several decades, with significant contributions to the Canadian art scene as well as international recognition. He received numerous awards, including the Governor General's Award in Visual and Media Arts and was made a Companion of the Order of Canada. In addition to his artistic endeavors, he also held a passion for wildlife conservation, which influenced his artistic themes.

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