What Happened This Year 2003

People Who Died in 2003

Mongo Santamaría

Cuban-American drummer and bandleader
Born
April 7th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
February 1st, 2003 22 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent Cuban-American drummer and bandleader, contributed significantly to the Afro-Cuban jazz genre. Studied traditional Cuban drumming techniques and integrated them into jazz, influencing many musicians. Santamaría gained attention with the hit single 'Watermelon Man', originally composed by Herbie Hancock. Throughout his career, he recorded several albums, showcasing a fusion of Cuban rhythms and jazz elements. His band often featured other notable musicians, further popularizing Latin jazz in the United States.

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Lou Harrison

Composer and educator, created 'Pacific Symphony'
Born
May 14th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2003 22 years ago — 85 years old

This American composer and educator was influential in the 20th-century music scene. Initiated interest in alternative tunings and non-Western music, integrating these elements into compositions. Became prominent for works incorporating Eastern musical influences, showcasing a blend of Western and Asian styles. Advocated for composing music using unconventional instruments, often employing gamelan ensembles. Contributed to the development of contemporary classical music through teaching and writing, impacting numerous students and musicians. In later years, gained recognition for collaborative projects, expanding the audience for new music forms.

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Benyoucef Benkhedda

Algerian pharmacist and politician
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2003 22 years ago — 83 years old

Worked as a prominent figure in Algeria's fight for independence from French colonial rule. Served as the President of the Provisional Government during the Algerian War of Independence. Contributed to shaping post-independence Algeria's policies and development in various sectors, particularly healthcare and education.

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Masatoshi Gündüz Ikeda

Mathematician focused on set theory
Born
February 25th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2003 22 years ago — 76 years old

Contributions included work in set theory, topology, and logic. Held academic positions at various institutions, fostering the development of mathematical research. Authored numerous papers and texts that advanced understanding in the field. His academic influence extended to mentoring new generations of mathematicians, promoting rigorous mathematical thinking.

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Ron Ziegler

14th White House Press Secretary
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2003 22 years ago — 64 years old

Served as the 14th White House Press Secretary from 1969 to 1974 under President Richard Nixon. Ziegler was involved in several critical events during his tenure, including the Watergate scandal, which significantly impacted the Nixon administration. Ziegler managed communications during a turbulent period in American politics, often facing intense scrutiny from the media. After leaving the White House, Ziegler continued his career in public relations and media consulting.

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Albert J. Ruffo

American lawyer and Mayor of San Jose
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2003 22 years ago — 95 years old

Served as the Mayor of San Jose from 1971 to 1975. Before the mayoral term, engaged in legal practice as a lawyer. Contributed to local community efforts and governance during his tenure. Played a role in various city initiatives aimed at urban development and public services in San Jose. After his mayoral term, continued involvement in political and civic activities in the region until his passing in 2003.

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Edgar de Evia

Photographer of Mexican-American heritage
Born
July 30th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2003 22 years ago — 92 years old

Significant contributions to photography included capturing the artistic and cultural essence of Mexico. Helped pioneer the field of fashion photography, merging it with fine art. Worked with prominent publications and magazines throughout a career that spanned several decades, showcasing both the natural beauty of landscapes and the intricacies of human expressions through portraiture. Achievements included numerous exhibitions and accolades that recognized the artistic merit of visual storytelling through photography.

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Walt Whitman Rostow

American economist; National Security Advisor
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2003 22 years ago — 87 years old

Served as the 7th United States National Security Advisor from 1966 to 1969. Contributed to the formulation of U.S. foreign policy during the Vietnam War era. Authored the book 'The Stages of Economic Growth: A Non-Communist Manifesto', which introduced the concept of stages of economic development. Engaged in academic work at prestigious institutions, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

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Kid Gavilán

Cuban-American boxing champion
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2003 22 years ago — 77 years old

Competed as a welterweight boxer between 1945 and 1956. Achieved significant success, capturing the World Welterweight title in 1951. Fought prominent opponents such as Sugar Ray Robinson and Carmen Basilio during career. Noted for a unique fighting style that combined speed and power. Concluded professional career with 108 wins, 30 losses, and 6 draws, establishing a strong legacy in boxing.

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