What Happened This Year 2007

People Who Died in 2007

Michael Deaver

Deputy White House Chief of Staff
Born
April 11th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2007 17 years ago — 69 years old

Served as Deputy White House Chief of Staff under President Ronald Reagan. Played a key role in the public relations strategy of the Reagan administration. Was influential in crafting the administration's image and communications. Worked on the 1984 presidential campaign, which resulted in Reagan's re-election. Continued a career in political consulting after leaving the government, advising clients on strategy and public image.

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Leona Helmsley

American hotelier and real estate leader
Born
July 4th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2007 17 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent business figure in the hotel and real estate industry, operated the Helmsley Hotels. Gained notoriety for operating high-end hotels in New York City, including the famous Parker Meridien and the Grand Hyatt. Her business strategies and controversies garnered significant media attention throughout her career. Became a key figure in the New York social scene during the 1980s, often associated with luxury living and extravagant lifestyles. Her legal troubles in the late 1980s and her eventual conviction for tax evasion, which led to a four-year prison sentence, marked significant turning points in her life.

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Elizabeth P. Hoisington

American Army General and pioneer leader
Born
November 3rd, 1918 106 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2007 17 years ago — 88 years old

Achieved the rank of Brigadier General in the United States Army, serving as the first woman to hold this position. Led the Women's Army Corps during her tenure, advocating for the integration of women into the military. Played a significant role in the expansion and professionalization of women's roles in the armed forces. Contributed to the advancement of gender equality in the military by actively supporting legislation for women's inclusion in various military roles.

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Siobhan Dowd

Author and activist, wrote 'A Swift Pure Cry'
Born
February 4th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2007 17 years ago — 47 years old

Born in 1960 in England, an author created notable works aimed at young adults. 'A Swift Pure Cry' received critical acclaim and was nominated for several awards. Dowd's writing often focused on themes of identity and social justice. In addition to writing, advocated for children's literacy and access to literature. Dowd's contributions to literature were recognized posthumously with multiple awards.

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Grace Paley

Short story writer and poet, influential voice
Born
December 11th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2007 17 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent short story writer and poet, contributed significantly to American literature. Published several collections of stories, including 'The Little Disturbances of Man' and 'Here and Somewhere Else.' Wrote poetry that often reflected social themes and personal experiences. Worked as an activist supporting anti-war and feminist causes, intertwining literary work with social justice.

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Aaron Russo

Film director and producer of 'Trading Places'
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
August 24th, 2007 17 years ago — 64 years old

A director and producer from the United States, known for contributions to the film industry. Directed the comedy film 'Trading Places' in 1983, which became a classic in American cinema. Produced numerous other films throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including 'The Rose' in 1979 and 'Bette Midler: The Rose' in 1980. Also involved in documentary filmmaking, with projects like 'America: Freedom to Fascism' released in 2006, which discussed the income tax system and government authority.

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Andrée Boucher

Canadian educator and politician
Born
January 31st, 1937 88 years ago
Died
August 24th, 2007 17 years ago — 70 years old

Served as the 39th Mayor of Quebec City from 2005 until 2010. Contributed to local education policies and municipal affairs. Held various positions within the community and advocated for civic development during the mayoral tenure. Prior to the mayoralty, worked in education and community service sectors.

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Ray Jones

English footballer with QPR stardom
Born
1988 37 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2007 17 years ago — 19 years old

Played as a forward, contributing significantly to Queens Park Rangers (QPR) in the Football League Championship. Made his professional debut with QPR in 2005 and quickly gained attention for his skill and potential. Throughout his brief career, appeared in numerous matches and showcased goal-scoring ability. Tragically, life was cut short in a car accident in 2007, ending the promising career at the age of 18.

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Gaston Thorn

Prime Minister of Luxembourg
Born
September 3rd, 1928 96 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2007 17 years ago — 78 years old

A lawyer and politician served as the 8th Prime Minister of Luxembourg from 1974 to 1979. Played a significant role in European integration, being a prominent advocate for the European Community. Served as a Member of the European Parliament and held various important governmental positions. Contributed to Luxembourg's foreign policy and economic development during tenure.

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