What Happened This Year 2005

People Who Died in 2005

Sam Mills

American football linebacker, Pro Bowler
Born
June 3rd, 1959 65 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 46 years old

A celebrated American football linebacker, this player had a significant impact on the National Football League. He played for the New Orleans Saints and the Carolina Panthers during his career, which spanned from 1986 to 1997. Mills was a key defensive leader known for his intensity and intelligence on the field. His most notable achievement came when he helped lead the Panthers to their first NFC Championship in the 1995 season. After retiring from professional football, he gained recognition as a coach and mentor, influencing future generations of players.

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Will Eisner

Comic book artist and graphic novelist
Born
March 6th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 88 years old

An influential figure in the comic book industry, contributions included creating the comic book character The Spirit. Pioneered the graphic novel format with the publication of A Contract with God in 1978, which is considered one of the first graphic novels. Founded his own publishing company, the Eisner Publishing Company, and played a significant role in establishing comics as a form of literature. An educator, taught at the School of Visual Arts, focusing on comics and storytelling.

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Vic Power

Baseball player and coach with MLB success
Born
November 1st, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 78 years old

Played in Major League Baseball primarily as a first baseman from 1954 to 1965. Helped the Minnesota Twins reach the American League pennant in 1965. Transitioned to coaching roles after retiring as a player, contributing to the development of younger players in various leagues. Recognized for his skills and contributions both on and off the field.

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Rafic Hariri

Lebanese businessman and Prime Minister
Born
November 1st, 1944 80 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent Lebanese businessman and politician, served as the 60th Prime Minister of Lebanon from 1992 to 1998 and again from 2000 until 2004. Played a significant role in Lebanon's reconstruction following the Civil War, focusing on economic revival and infrastructure development. Established the Hariri Foundation, which has contributed to education and social development in Lebanon. Assassinated in 2005, which led to widespread protests and political change in Lebanon.

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James Booth

English actor and screenwriter
Born
December 19th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 78 years old

An English actor and screenwriter, contributions to film and television spanned several decades. Gained recognition for roles in prominent works during the 1960s and 1970s. Played major parts in films such as 'The Hill' and 'The Wild Geese'. Acted in the series 'The Avengers' and 'Lovejoy'. Besides on-screen performances, also credited with screenwriting.

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Akira Yoshizawa

Japanese origami artist and innovator
Born
March 14th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 94 years old

An origami artist and teacher, this individual developed innovative folding techniques that transformed the art of paper folding into a recognized art form. Worked tirelessly to promote origami as an art and science, establishing various educational programs and workshops around the globe. Published multiple influential books on origami that showcased unique designs and methods. Contributed significantly to origami's recognition and appreciation worldwide, bridging artistic and mathematical concepts in the practice.

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Emmett Leith

Professor of electrical engineering, holography
Born
March 12th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 78 years old

American professor of electrical engineering contributed significantly to the field of holography. Co-invented three-dimensional holography in the 1960s, a revolutionary development in the technique of capturing and reproducing light fields. This work allowed for realistic visual representation in various applications, including telecommunications and data storage. Had a notable academic career, holding a position at the University of Michigan, where many students were influenced by his research and teachings. Authored numerous papers and participated in various conferences, further advancing studies in optics and imaging.

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Robert Clarke

Actor in 'The 27th Day'
Born
June 1st, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 85 years old

An American actor and producer, primarily active during the mid-20th century. Gained recognition for performances in films including 'The 27th Day' and appearances in various television shows. Worked with several production companies and contributed to the industry as both an actor and a producer.

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Clarence 'Gatemouth' Brown

Blues guitarist and singer-songwriter
Born
April 18th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1924, a prominent figure in blues music, renowned for blending various genres including country, R&B, and jazz. Gained recognition for his virtuosic guitar skills and distinctive voice. Achieved significant acclaim with albums such as 'Gatemouth Blues' and won a Grammy Award in 1982 for Best Blues Recording for 'Someone Else Is Steppin' In.'

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