What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan

Emir and first president of UAE
Born
May 6th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 86 years old

Born in Abu Dhabi in 1918, served as the emir of Abu Dhabi and became the first president of the United Arab Emirates in 1971. Played a crucial role in the formation and federal unity of the UAE, overseeing significant development and modernization in the region. Advocated for education, health care, and infrastructure improvements, which contributed to the country’s rapid advancement. Passed away in 2004, leaving behind a legacy of progress and unity within the emirates.

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Ramon Margalef

Ecologist and biologist with pivotal works
Born
May 16th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 85 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of ecology, particularly in the study of marine ecosystems. Developed concepts in ecological theory and biodiversity. Authored many influential papers and books, including 'Ecology' and 'The Ecology of the Ocean'. Served as a professor at the University of Barcelona, where research focused on the relationships between organisms and their environments. Instrumental in developing the field of limnology, the study of freshwater ecosystems. Played a key role in promoting the understanding of ecological dynamics during a time of environmental change.

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Lee Guttero

American Basketball Player
Born
July 1st, 1913 111 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 91 years old

Played professional basketball primarily for the Chicago American Gears during the 1940s. Guttero competed in the Basketball Association of America and later in the National Basketball Association. His career included participation in various basketball leagues, showcasing skills as a guard. He gained recognition for his contributions to the game during an era that helped shape professional basketball in America.

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Leonard Birchall

Royal Canadian Air Force pilot
Born
July 6th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a pilot in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. Captured by Japanese forces in 1941 while serving in the Far East. Endured hardships as a prisoner of war for three and a half years. Returned to Canada after the war and contributed to the development of the Canadian Air Cadet program.

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Umberto Agnelli

Businessman and politician, Fiat executive
Born
November 1st, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 70 years old

Born in Switzerland, a businessman and politician, focused on the automotive industry. Served as the chairman of Fiat S.p.A. from 1996 to 2003, contributing to the company's strategy and operations during a transformative period. Involved in social responsibilities and various philanthropic initiatives. Played a significant role in navigating the challenges faced by the Fiat Group in the early 2000s. Elected to the Italian parliament, representing interests tied to the family-owned business and broader economic policies.

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Mei Zhi

Chinese author and essayist
Born
June 22nd, 1914 110 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1914, this individual became a significant figure in Chinese literature and culture. Writing extensively throughout a career that spanned several decades, produced numerous essays, stories, and literary critiques. Focused on themes related to personal experiences, identity, and Chinese society. Engaged in literary criticism and was involved in publishing, contributing to the promotion of literature in China during the 20th century. Advocated for literary expression and explored issues of censorship and freedom in writing, particularly during turbulent political times.

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Ken Burkhart

Baseball player and umpire
Born
November 18th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 89 years old

Played as a professional baseball player in Major League Baseball. Transitioned to umpiring, officiating in the National League for over two decades. Participated in three World Series as an umpire, demonstrating significant expertise in the sport. Contributed to the development of umpiring standards and practices during a critical period in baseball history.

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Sergei Zholtok

Latvian ice hockey player and forward
Born
December 2nd, 1972 52 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 32 years old

Played professional ice hockey in various leagues, including the NHL. Competed for teams such as the Ottawa Senators and the Minnesota Wild. Represented Latvia in international competitions, including the IIHF World Championships.

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Kagamisato Kiyoji

Sumo wrestler, 42nd Yokozuna
Born
April 30th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 81 years old

Born on April 30, 1923, a prominent sumo wrestler in Japan. Achieved the prestigious rank of Yokozuna, representing the pinnacle of success in the sport. Competed primarily in the 1940s and 1950s, demonstrating notable strength and skill in the ring. His career was marked by significant rivalries and triumphs that contributed to his legacy in sumo wrestling history.

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