What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

Czesław Miłosz

Polish poet and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 30th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2004 20 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent poet, essayist, and novelist emerged as a significant figure in 20th-century literature. Writings often reflected the complexities of war, exile, and identity. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1980 for a body of work that encapsulated the spirit of the times. Worked as a diplomat and served as the cultural attaché in Paris, influencing literary circles. Later settled in the United States, where he continued to write and teach.

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Sune Bergström

Swedish biochemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
January 10th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 15th, 2004 20 years ago — 88 years old

A Swedish biochemist specialized in the fields of lipid biochemistry and the enzymatic processes related to them. Contributed significantly to the understanding of prostaglandins and their role in physiological processes. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1982 for research in the field of fatty acids and their influence on health. Served as a professor at the Karolinska Institute, engaging in both teaching and research activities.

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Amarsinh Chaudhary

Indian politician, Chief Minister of Gujarat
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
August 15th, 2004 20 years ago — 63 years old

Served as the eighth Chief Minister of Gujarat from 1972 to 1973. Represented the Indian National Congress party during a crucial period in Gujarat's political history. Had a significant role in state-level politics and contributed to various developmental initiatives. Participated in the legislative assembly and held important positions within the party.

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Ivan Hlinka

Czech ice hockey player and coach
Born
January 26th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2004 20 years ago — 54 years old

Played professional ice hockey primarily for HC Litvínov and the Czechoslovak national team. Achieved significant success as a coach, leading the Czech national team to gold at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano. Coached various teams in international competitions, focusing on developing young talent and strategies. His coaching career included a successful tenure in the NHL with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

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Carl Mydans

American photographer and journalist
Born
May 20th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2004 20 years ago — 97 years old

Started a career in photojournalism in the 1930s, working for the Farm Security Administration. Covered significant historical events, including World War II, capturing images of the Pacific theater, Hiroshima, and the aftermath of the war in Europe. Contributed to numerous publications, including Life magazine, documenting both war and American society. Won awards for excellence in photojournalism, including the Overseas Press Club Award in 1970.

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Thea Astley

Australian journalist and author
Born
August 25th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2004 20 years ago — 78 years old

Astley contributed significantly to Australian literature with a focus on the social and cultural landscapes of the country. As a novelist, essays and short stories were published across various notable platforms. The body of work includes themes exploring identity, loss, and the human condition, often reflecting aspects of Australian life. Astley won several prestigious awards for her literary contributions, including the Miles Franklin Literary Award multiple times.

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Hiram Fong

Soldier and politician in the USA
Born
October 15th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2004 20 years ago — 97 years old

Served in the US Army during World War II and later became a politician. Elected as a Republican Senator from Hawaii, holding office from 1959 to 1977. Advocated for statehood for Hawaii and worked on various legislative initiatives during his tenure. Also involved in international affairs, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, and served on the Senate's Foreign Relations Committee.

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Elmer Bernstein

Composer of film scores and conductor
Born
April 4th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2004 20 years ago — 82 years old

Gained recognition for film scoring starting in the 1950s. Composed music for a variety of genres, producing scores for over 200 films. Collaborated with directors like Alfred Hitchcock and John Frankenheimer. Achieved critical acclaim for work in films such as "The Magnificent Seven," "To Kill a Mockingbird," and "Ghostbusters." Received Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame throughout his career. Continued to influence film music until retirement.

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Sachidananda Routray

Oriya-language poet and literary figure
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2004 20 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent poet in the Oriya language, contributions spanned several decades. Recognized for blending traditional and modern themes in poetry. Active in the literary scene during the late 20th century, influenced the Oriya literary renaissance. Awarded the prestigious Jnanpith Award for excellence in literature.

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