What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

Laura Betti

Italian actress in film and theater
Born
May 1st, 1927 98 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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David Dellinger

American activist and pacifist
Born
August 22nd, 1915 109 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 89 years old

Engaged in activism throughout much of the 20th century. Advocated for pacifism, civil rights, and anti-war movements. Contributed to the anti-Vietnam War efforts and worked with various organizations fighting against nuclear proliferation. Participated in the Chicago Seven trial after opposing the 1968 Democratic National Convention. Authored several books on peace and social justice, influencing the discourse around activism and nonviolence.

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Mary McGrory

American journalist and author
Born
August 22nd, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent journalist and author, contributed significantly to political commentary and reporting in the United States. Worked for major publications including The Washington Star and The Washington Post, offering unique insights into political events and figures. Often wrote about prominent politicians and key national issues, influencing public discourse through op-eds and features. Authored several books that explored American politics and journalism throughout the 20th century.

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Arturo M. Tolentino

Diplomat and politician in the Philippines
Born
September 19th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 94 years old

Served as a prominent diplomat and politician in the Philippines. Played a crucial role in the country’s political landscape during the 20th century, notably serving as the last Secretary of Foreign Affairs before martial law was declared in 1972. Instrumental in various diplomatic negotiations and council meetings, contributing to the shaping of foreign policy.

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Galina Gavrilovna Korchuganova

Soviet test pilot and aerobatics champion
Born
March 22nd, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1935, a Soviet test pilot achieved significant recognition in the field of aviation. Served as a test pilot for various aircraft models and earned accolades for exceptional skills in aerobatic flying. Competed in numerous national and international aerobatic competitions, showcasing mastery in flight maneuvers. Served as an influential figure in promoting aviation among women in the Soviet Union.

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Clint Warwick

Bass player for The Moody Blues
Born
June 25th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 64 years old

A bass player contributed significantly to the formation of The Moody Blues, a rock band formed in the 1960s. The band achieved recognition with the 1967 album 'Days of Future Passed', which was one of the first successful concept albums in rock music. Warwick's style and musical contributions were integral to the band's early sound, which combined rock with orchestral elements. In 1969, he left the band and was replaced by another bassist, continuing to influence the music scene.

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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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