What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

Laura Betti

Italian actress in film and theater
Born
May 1st, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1927, this actress worked extensively in Italian cinema and gained recognition for performances in several films directed by notable filmmakers. Collaborated with directors such as Pier Paolo Pasolini and Marco Ferreri, contributing to avant-garde cinema. Appeared in significant roles in films such as 'Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom' and 'Teoreama'. Besides film, worked in theater and television, leaving a lasting impression through a range of dramatic performances.

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Tug McGraw

Professional baseball relief pitcher
Born
August 30th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 60 years old

A professional baseball relief pitcher played primarily for the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies. Achieved significant recognition for contributions to both teams during careers spanning from 1965 to 1984. Helped the New York Mets win the World Series in 1969 and later played a key role in the Philadelphia Phillies' triumph in the 1980 World Series. Known for a unique pitching style and charismatic personality, he made a lasting impact in Major League Baseball.

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Norman Heatley

Biologist and chemist, penicillin co-developer
Born
January 10th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 93 years old

A biologist and chemist who contributed significantly to the development of penicillin, facilitating the mass production of antibiotics. Collaborated with other scientists in the early 1940s to refine the extraction methods of penicillin, making it widely available for medical use during World War II. This effort revolutionized the treatment of bacterial infections and marked a pivotal moment in medical history. Also worked on various other projects related to chemistry and microbiology throughout his career, earning recognition within scientific communities.

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Delia Scala

Italian ballerina and actress in opera
Born
September 25th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 75 years old

Born in Italy in 1929, Delia Scala trained as a ballerina and gained prominence in the world of dance and opera. Scala performed with prestigious companies, showcasing exceptional talent in ballet and theatre. She became a key figure in the Italian artistic scene, gaining recognition for performances that captivated audiences. Her artistry and contributions to the performing arts earned her a notable place in the history of ballet and Italian theatre.

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Cem Karaca

Turkish musician and political activist
Born
April 5th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 59 years old

A significant figure in Turkish rock music, Karaca gained prominence in the late 1960s and 1970s. His music often addressed social and political issues, merging traditional Turkish sounds with Western rock influences. After facing political pressure, including imprisonment and exile, he returned to Turkey in the 1980s and continued to produce music that resonated with audiences. With a career that spanned several decades, he became a symbol of resistance against oppression through art.

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Arnold Orville Beckman

Chemist and inventor of pH meter
Born
April 10th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 104 years old

This American chemist developed the first pH meter in 1934, which revolutionized the field of chemistry by providing precise measurements of acidity and alkalinity. Beckman founded Beckman Instruments, a company that produced various scientific instruments, including the spectrophotometer. The spectrophotometer became a crucial tool in laboratories for analyzing chemical substances. Beckman was also a philanthropist, contributing significantly to educational institutions and research funding. He played a key role in the establishment of the California Institute of Technology's Beckman Institute.

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Jan Berry

American singer-songwriter, Beach Boys
Born
April 3rd, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 63 years old

A singer-songwriter gained recognition in the early 1960s as one half of the duo Jan and Dean. Alongside Dean Torrence, produced influential surf rock music characterized by harmonies and catchy melodies. The duo achieved considerable success with hits like 'Surf City,' which was the first surf song to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Their music became emblematic of the California surf culture. Jan Berry also contributed significantly to the songwriting and production side of the duo's projects, fostering a distinct sound that influenced future rock musicians. Despite personal challenges, including a serious car accident in 1966, continued to perform and record music throughout the years, leaving a lasting legacy in the surf rock genre.

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Charles Brown

American actor known for 'The Pacific'
Born
January 15th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 58 years old

An American actor achieved recognition for participation in the HBO miniseries 'The Pacific', which aired in 2010. The series focused on the experiences of U.S. Marines during World War II in the Pacific Theater. In addition to work on 'The Pacific', contributed to various other television and film productions throughout a lengthy career. The individual excelled in portraying complex characters that reflected historical narratives and human experiences.

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Francesco Scavullo

Photographer for Vogue magazine
Born
January 16th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 83 years old

An American photographer celebrated for work in fashion photography and portraiture. Renowned for contributing to Vogue magazine, capturing the essence of several high-profile personalities in his signature style. Created iconic images characterized by bold colors and dramatic lighting. Partnered with various celebrities, contributing to their public personas through striking visuals. Authored several photography books that showcase comprehensive portfolios.

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