What Happened This Year 2007

People Who Died in 2007

Yang Chuan-kwang

Taiwanese decathlete and long jumper
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2007 18 years ago — 74 years old

Participated in decathlon, long jump, and hurdles. Competed in the 1960 and 1964 Summer Olympics representing Taiwan. Achieved various medals in Asian Games, showcasing talent across multiple track and field disciplines. Contributed significantly to athletics in Taiwan.

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Yelena Romanova

Russian middle-distance runner, Olympic medalist
Born
March 20th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2007 18 years ago — 43 years old

Accomplished as a middle-distance runner, achieved significant results in several major competitions. Competed primarily in the 1500 meters and held the European record for this distance. Won a silver medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. Claimed multiple medals at World Championships, enhancing the prominence of Russian athletics during the 1990s.

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Karel Svoboda

Czech composer and orchestral creator
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2007 18 years ago — 69 years old

Czech composer contributed to film and television music, recognized for creating memorable scores. Worked in various genres, including orchestral and electronic music. Collaborated with prominent filmmakers and ensured the integration of music into storytelling. Left a significant legacy in the realm of film music, inspiring future generations of composers.

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Carlo Clerici

Swiss cyclist and Tour de France participant
Born
September 3rd, 1929 95 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2007 18 years ago — 77 years old

This cyclist competed primarily during the 1950s and 1960s. He participated in the Tour de France and achieved notable rankings in various races. His career spanned several years in professional cycling, contributing to the sport's history through participation in prestigious events.

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Robert Drinan

American priest and politician
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2007 18 years ago — 87 years old

A priest and lawyer, served as a U.S. Congressman from Massachusetts from 1971 to 1981. Focused on civil rights, anti-war efforts, and social justice throughout tenure. Advocated for the abolition of the death penalty and supported various progressive policies. After leaving Congress, continued a career in academia as a professor and dean at Georgetown University Law Center.

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Sidney Sheldon

Author and screenwriter of thrillers
Born
February 11th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
January 30th, 2007 18 years ago — 89 years old

An author and screenwriter achieved widespread recognition through contributions to literature and film. Wrote multiple best-selling novels, including 'Master of the Game' and 'The Other Side of Midnight'. Developed successful television series such as 'I Dream of Jeannie' and 'Hart to Hart'. Sheldon adapted storytelling techniques that blended suspense and drama, gaining a significant readership worldwide.

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Molly Ivins

Journalist and author of witty commentary
Born
August 30th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
January 31st, 2007 18 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent journalist and author, contributed commentary on politics and society through writing and public speaking. Worked for various newspapers, including the Houston Chronicle and The New York Times, providing insights on Texas politics. Authored several books, including 'Bushwhacked' and 'Shrub', critiquing political figures and policies with sharp wit. Engaged in public speaking and commentary, influencing public discourse.

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Adelaide Tambo

South African activist and politician
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
January 31st, 2007 18 years ago — 78 years old

An influential South African political figure, this activist played a vital role in the anti-apartheid movement alongside her husband, Oliver Tambo. Engaged in activities with the African National Congress (ANC), she focused on mobilizing support for the struggle against apartheid on both national and international levels. Adelaide served as a member of the ANC's National Executive Committee, contributing to the party's strategy and policies. After the end of apartheid, she continued to advocate for social justice and served in various capacities within the South African government, promoting equality and human rights. Her efforts helped shape the new political landscape post-apartheid.

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Gian Carlo Menotti

Composer of operas like 'Amahl and the Night Visitors'
Born
July 7th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
February 1st, 2007 18 years ago — 95 years old

An Italian-American playwright and composer distinguished for contributions to opera. Founded the Festival of Two Worlds in Spoleto, Italy, celebrating international arts and introducing audiences to innovative performances. Composed several acclaimed operas, notably 'Amahl and the Night Visitors', which premiered in 1951 and is recognized as a Christmas classic. Created many other notable works including 'The Medium' and 'The Telephone'. Received two Pulitzer Prizes for Music, enhancing the visibility of contemporary operatic art in the United States and abroad.

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