What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

Samuel Dash

American academic and politician
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2004 20 years ago — 79 years old

An academic and politician contributed significantly to legal education and public service. Served as a law professor at Georgetown University Law Center and became a respected authority in legal ethics and criminal law. Held the position of chief counsel for the Senate Watergate Committee, assisting in the investigation of the Watergate scandal. Authored multiple publications on legal subjects and guided numerous students in their legal careers.

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Robert Quine

American guitarist and music producer
Born
December 30th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2004 20 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent figure in the American rock music scene, played guitar for bands such as The Voidoids and produced music for various artists. Contributed significantly to the punk and alternative genres, showcasing an innovative style that blended punk, art rock, and pop influences. Quine's work as a guitarist was noted for its unique sound and technical proficiency, influencing countless musicians. In addition to band work, collaborated with numerous artists, producing albums that received critical acclaim.

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Aiyathurai Nadesan

Journalist and Tamil political activist
Born
1954 71 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2004 20 years ago — 50 years old

A prominent journalist, focused on issues surrounding the Tamil community in Sri Lanka. Nadesan contributed significantly to media representing Tamil perspectives during the Sri Lankan Civil War. He founded and edited the Tamil newspaper 'Uthayan', providing critical coverage of events impacting the Tamil populace. Advocacy for press freedom and the rights of Tamils defined his later years, leading to increased recognition by human rights organizations. Nadesan's life and career were marked by a commitment to truth and journalism in a challenging political landscape.

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William Manchester

Historian and author of 'The Death of a President'
Born
April 1st, 1922 103 years ago
Died
June 1st, 2004 20 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent American historian and author, contributed significantly to historical literature. Provided a detailed account of the assassination of John F. Kennedy in 'The Death of a President'. Held a long career in academia, teaching at institutions such as Massachusetts Institute of Technology and other universities. Authored several biographies and historical works that garnered widespread attention and critical acclaim.

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Steve Lacy

Saxophonist and composer for jazz
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
June 4th, 2004 20 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent figure in the jazz genre, contributed significantly to the evolution of avant-garde jazz and free jazz. Worked with influential artists such as Thelonious Monk and Cecil Taylor. Developed a unique style that combined traditional elements with innovative approaches. Released multiple albums, showcasing both composition and improvisation skills. Lacy also focused on integrating music with other forms of art, including theater and dance.

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Nino Manfredi

Italian actor, director, screenwriter
Born
March 22nd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
June 4th, 2004 20 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1921, achieved prominence in Italian cinema and theatre as a versatile actor, director, and screenwriter. Worked in various genres, showcasing a range of talent from comedy to drama. Contributed to the Italian film industry in significant ways, particularly during the 1960s and 70s. Directed acclaimed films and participated in several major productions that highlighted Italian culture and social issues.

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Ronald Reagan

Actor and 40th U.S. President
Born
February 6th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
June 5th, 2004 20 years ago — 93 years old

Initiated a political career in the late 1940s after a successful acting career in Hollywood. Served as the Governor of California from 1967 to 1975. Elected as the 40th President of the United States, serving two terms from 1981 to 1989. Focused on economic policies known as 'Reaganomics' and emphasized a strong anti-communist foreign policy. Played a key role in the conclusion of the Cold War, advocating arms reduction treaties with the Soviet Union. Also known for initiating the War on Drugs.

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Iona Brown

Violinist and conductor of orchestras
Born
January 7th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
June 5th, 2004 20 years ago — 63 years old

An accomplished violinist and conductor, contributions included leading prominent orchestras. Served as the concertmaster of the Academy of St Martin in the Fields and later became its music director. Conducted various esteemed orchestras and participated in numerous recordings, showcasing exceptional musicianship and leadership. Involved in a range of educational initiatives, focusing on developing young talent in classical music.

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Mack Jones

Baseball player with Boston Red Sox
Born
November 6th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
June 8th, 2004 20 years ago — 65 years old

Played professional baseball primarily as an outfielder from 1958 to 1970. Debuted with the Boston Red Sox and played for the Cincinnati Reds and Atlanta Braves. Became a regular player and contributed to team successes during his career. Participated in the 1963 All-Star Game, showcasing talent at the major league level. Concluded playing career in the minors with several organizations before retiring from professional play.

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