What Happened This Year 2003

People Who Died in 2003

Michael Kijana Wamalwa

Kenyan politician, 8th Vice President
Born
November 25th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2003 21 years ago — 58 years old

Served as the 8th Vice President of Kenya from 2002 until death in 2003. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Kenya having held various positions including Minister of Tourism and Wildlife. Engaged in legal practice prior to entering politics, focusing on matters related to public service. Was a member of the Kenya African National Union party and contributed to numerous political campaigns during his career. Advocated for democratic reforms and was involved in peace initiatives during periods of political strife in the country.

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Jack Dyer

Australian footballer and coach
Born
November 15th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2003 21 years ago — 89 years old

Played Australian rules football for Richmond in the Victorian Football League (VFL) from 1931 to 1949. Served as captain of the team and later took on coaching responsibilities. Elected to the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 1996. Contributed to the development of the game through coaching and commentary after retirement.

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Wilfred Thesiger

Explorer and author of Arabian Sands
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
August 24th, 2003 21 years ago — 93 years old

Ethiopian-English explorer and author conducted extensive explorations in the Arabian Peninsula and the Empty Quarter. Authored several books that documented the cultures and landscapes of the regions explored. His most notable work, 'Arabian Sands', provided detailed accounts of the Bedouin way of life and the challenges faced during traversing deserts. Thesiger's affinity for the desert and its peoples was a central theme in his writings, offering insights into a lifestyle that was under threat from modernization.

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Tom Feelings

Author and illustrator of children's books
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2003 21 years ago — 70 years old

An American author and illustrator contributed significantly to children's literature. Focused on themes of African American heritage, illustrated works showcased cultural identity and social issues. Published 'Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters' and 'The Middle Passage,' which received critical acclaim and various awards. The artistic style emphasized vibrant illustrations that captivated young readers and addressed important historical and social themes.

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Jim Wacker

American football coach and player
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2003 21 years ago — 66 years old

A college football coach and player, served as head coach at various universities. Led teams at Southwest Texas State University, Texas Christian University, and the University of Minnesota. Achieved success in the Southland Conference and earned accolades for rebuilding struggling programs. Transitioned to the University of Minnesota, guiding them to competitive seasons in the Big Ten. Additionally, played as a quarterback during college years and contributed to the development of numerous players entering professional football.

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Pierre Poujade

French politician and founder of the Poujadist movement
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2003 21 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent figure in French politics, played a key role in the Poujadist movement during the 1950s. This movement emerged in response to the perceived neglect of small traders and shopkeepers by the government, advocating for their interests and challenging the status quo. Served as a member of the National Assembly from 1956 to 1958, representing the Lot-et-Garonne department. His political activities focused on protecting small businesses and rural interests, creating a significant influence in local politics. After the decline of the Poujadist movement, remained active in various national and local campaigns until later years.

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Mohammad Baqir al-Hakim

Iraqi politician and religious leader
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2003 21 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent Iraqi politician and religious leader, played a significant role in post-Saddam Iraq. Founded the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq (SCIRI), which aimed to establish a government based on Islamic principles following the fall of Saddam Hussein. Actively participated in shaping Iraq's political landscape, advocating for Shia representation and influence within the government. Influenced the formation of Iraq's new constitution and highlighted the importance of Shiite rights in post-war Iraq. Assassinated in 2003 in a bombing in Najaf, his death left a notable void in Iraqi politics.

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Donald Davidson

Philosopher and academic in the USA
Born
March 6th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2003 21 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent philosopher and academic, contributed significantly to the fields of philosophy of language, philosophy of mind, and action theory. Developed the theory of radical interpretation, which focused on understanding language and meaning through the context of speaker intentions. Also known for the principle of event semantics, linking actions and mental states to the events they describe. Published influential works that shaped contemporary philosophical discussions, particularly through essays and books such as 'Actions, Reasons, and Causes' and 'Truth and Meaning'.

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Charles Bronson

Actor and American soldier in film roles
Born
November 3rd, 1921 103 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2003 21 years ago — 81 years old

Served in the United States Army during World War II. Transitioned to a successful acting career post-war with a focus on tough-guy roles. Featured prominently in films such as 'Death Wish', where played Paul Kersey, and starred in 'The Magnificent Seven'. Gained recognition for portrayals in Westerns and action films, often emphasizing themes of justice and revenge. Continued to act in various roles throughout the 1980s and 1990s, maintaining a strong presence in popular culture until retirement.

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