What Happened This Year 2002

People Who Died in 2002

Hans-Georg Gadamer

Philosopher known for Truth and Method
Born
February 11th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2002 23 years ago — 102 years old

Associated with philosophical hermeneutics, contributed significantly to the understanding of interpretation and meaning in texts. Emphasized the importance of dialogue in understanding. Authored the influential book 'Truth and Method', which discusses the nature of understanding and how it is shaped by historical context. Engaged with the works of philosophers such as Heidegger and Plato, and shaped contemporary discussions on aesthetics and hermeneutics.

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Rosetta LeNoire

American actress and producer of TV shows
Born
August 8th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2002 22 years ago — 90 years old

An American actress and producer, celebrated for contributions to television and theater. Co-founded the New Heritage Theatre Company to showcase African American talent in the arts. Had a prominent role as Matriarch on the television series 'Amen', which aired from 1986 to 1991. Received acclaim for performances in various productions, including Broadway shows. Worked extensively in fostering opportunities for Black actors in the entertainment industry.

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Văn Tiến Dũng

Vietnamese general and Minister of Defence
Born
May 2nd, 1917 107 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2002 22 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the sixth Minister of Defence of Vietnam from 1974 to 1987. Played a significant role in the Vietnam War, commanding the North Vietnamese Army during key offensives. Participated in various military strategies leading to the reunification of Vietnam. After the war, contributed to the military reform policies within the country until retirement. Influenced defense policies during a pivotal time in Vietnam's history.

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Sylvester "Pat" Weaver

Television broadcaster and producer
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2002 22 years ago — 94 years old

Significant contributions to television broadcasting included pioneering a new format for the medium. Developed influential programs such as 'The Tonight Show' and 'Today', helping to shape the landscape of American television. Oversaw the establishment of the television operations for NBC, leading innovative programming strategies during the early years of television. Played a key role in launching several popular shows that defined early television.

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R. A. Lafferty

American author of speculative fiction
Born
November 7th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2002 22 years ago — 87 years old

An author contributed significantly to speculative fiction, particularly known for intricate narratives and complex characters. Works featured elements of fantasy, science fiction, and sometimes absurdism, showcasing a distinct style. Various short stories and novels earned recognition for originality. Often blended mythological and historical references into narratives, creating unique worlds. Made a lasting contribution to the genre through published works.

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Herman Talmadge

American politician and Georgia Governor
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2002 22 years ago — 89 years old

Served as the 70th Governor of Georgia from 1948 to 1955 and again in 1956. Held the position of U.S. Senator for Georgia from 1957 to 1981. Worked as a lawyer and initially gained prominence during the post-World War II political landscape. Focused on issues such as public education and state government reform during tenure. Promoted segregationist policies and faced criticism for those views throughout political career.

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Eileen Farrell

Soprano and music educator
Born
February 13th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2002 22 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent American soprano and educator, this individual had a significant influence on the world of opera and classical music. Garnering acclaim for a powerful voice and dramatic abilities, performances included leading roles in productions such as 'Tosca' and 'La Traviata.' Beyond the stage, contributions to education included teaching at various institutions, sharing knowledge and techniques with aspiring singers. The career spanned several decades, showcasing talent in both opera and concert settings, along with recordings that reached a wide audience.

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Bob Said

Race car driver and bobsledder
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2002 22 years ago — 70 years old

Competed in both auto racing and bobsledding. Achieved recognition in the 1960s and 70s as a race car driver, with appearances in events like the Indianapolis 500. Transitioned to bobsledding where participation in the sport highlighted versatility and athletic skill. Contributed to the promotion of motorsport and winter sports.

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César Milstein

Biochemist, Nobel Prize laureate in Physiology
Born
October 8th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2002 22 years ago — 74 years old

An Argentinian-English biochemist, significant contributions focused on the development of monoclonal antibody technology. This breakthrough technology revolutionized biomedical research and diagnostics. Milstein's research was conducted primarily at the Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, where innovative methodologies in immunology were established. His work gained recognition in the scientific community, culminating in the award of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1984, shared with Georges Köhler and Niels K. Jerne.

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