What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

Cem Karaca

Turkish musician and political activist
Born
April 5th, 1945 80 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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Tug McGraw

Professional baseball relief pitcher
Born
August 30th, 1944 81 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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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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Ramon Margalef

Ecologist and biologist with pivotal works
Born
May 16th, 1919 106 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 112 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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Umberto Agnelli

Businessman and politician, Fiat executive
Born
November 1st, 1934 91 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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