What Happened This Year 2007

People Who Died in 2007

Belinda Dann

Indigenous Australian reunited with family
Born
July 4th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 107 years old

An Indigenous Australian, this individual was part of the Stolen Generation, a group of Aboriginal children forcibly removed from their families by Australian government policy. At the age of 107, she was reunited with her family, highlighting the ongoing impact of historical policies on Indigenous communities. The reunion served as a poignant reminder of the importance of cultural heritage and family connections for Indigenous Australians.

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Maurice Papon

French civil servant during Vichy government
Born
September 3rd, 1910 114 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 97 years old

Served as a civil servant in France during the Vichy regime. Held positions including Prefect of Police in Paris, where actions during World War II led to significant deportations of Jews. Later faced trial for complicity in war crimes, resulting in a conviction. His career was marked by political controversies and legal battles regarding his actions during the Holocaust.

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Charles Forte

Businessman and Forte Group founder
Born
November 26th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 99 years old

Born in Italy, a businessman established the Forte Group, a prominent hospitality and restaurant company with operations in various countries. This venture began in the mid-20th century and expanded significantly, encompassing hotels, restaurants, and catering services. As a key figure in the hospitality industry, the individual contributed to the development of numerous establishments across the United Kingdom and beyond. The Forte Group became synonymous with quality dining and accommodation, playing a significant role in shaping the food and hotel services sector.

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Leroy Jenkins

Violinist and composer of avant-garde music
Born
March 11th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 75 years old

A pioneering figure in the world of avant-garde music, contributed significantly to the development of free jazz and contemporary classical styles. Studied at the University of Wisconsin and later collaborated with notable musicians within the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians. Jenkins was a member of the renowned string quartet, the Black Artists Group, which played a crucial role in the St. Louis arts scene during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Composed a variety of works that fused improvisation with classical forms, gaining recognition for both performances and original compositions.

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Vladimir Kazantsev

Russian middle-distance runner
Born
January 6th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 84 years old

Competed in middle-distance running events, participating in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics. Achieved notable success in Soviet athletics during the 1940s and 1950s. Established personal bests in various distances, contributing to the development of track and field in Russia.

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Seung-Hui Cho

Mass murderer responsible for Virginia Tech shooting
Born
January 18th, 1984 41 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 23 years old

Born in South Korea, committed a mass shooting at Virginia Tech on April 16, 2007, which resulted in 32 deaths and injuries to many others. The incident is remembered as one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history. Cho was a student at Virginia Tech prior to the shooting and had exhibited signs of mental health issues in the years leading up to the event. He wrote and directed a series of disturbing plays that reflected his troubled state of mind. Cho's actions spurred discussions about gun control and mental health resources in educational institutions.

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Gad Yaacobi

Israeli Diplomat, UN Ambassador
Born
January 18th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 72 years old

An academic and diplomat, served as the 10th Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations. Contributed to various international discussions regarding Israel's position on global issues. Held significant roles in both academic circles and governmental frameworks, bridging knowledge and diplomacy.

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Elfi von Dassanowsky

Singer and pianist with theatrical acclaim
Born
February 2nd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 83 years old

Born in Austria in 1924, this singer, pianist, and producer made significant contributions to the arts, particularly in musical theater and opera. The individual was involved in various productions, showcasing a strong talent for both performance and music production. After relocating to the United States, the individual participated in numerous theatrical performances and concerts, gaining recognition in the cultural landscape. Teaching and mentoring young musicians also formed a crucial part of the professional journey, impacting the next generation of artists.

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Sherri Martel

Professional wrestler and manager
Born
February 8th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 49 years old

A professional wrestler and manager, recognized for contributions to the wrestling industry. Had a significant career in various promotions, including World Wrestling Federation and World Championship Wrestling. Played a prominent role in the women's division during her peak years and managed several high-profile wrestlers. Known for a charismatic presence and unique style, often incorporating elements of high drama in matches and storylines.

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