What Happened This Year 2007

People Who Died in 2007

Kerwin Mathews

American actor in fantasy films
Born
January 8th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 81 years old

Kerwin Mathews was an American actor prominent in the 1950s and 1960s, particularly recognized for his roles in fantasy films. Mathews starred in several films, showcasing his talent in adventure and fantasy genres. He gained acclaim for performances in 'The 7th Voyage of Sinbad' and 'Jack the Giant Killer'. In addition to his film career, Mathews made appearances in television series, further solidifying his status in the entertainment industry. His contributions to fantasy cinema left a lasting impression during his active years.

Continue Reading

Tommy Byrne

Baseball player and coach
Born
December 31st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 88 years old

A former professional baseball player and coach, achieved significant success as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Played for the New York Yankees and the Chicago White Sox. Transitioned to coaching after retiring from playing, contributing to the development of future players in the sport. Additionally involved in politics, serving in the New York State Assembly. His multifaceted career included athletic achievement and public service.

Continue Reading

Evelyn Knight

American singer with hit 'A Little Bird Told Me'
Born
December 31st, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 90 years old

Started a career in music in the late 1930s, gaining prominence through radio and recording. Achieved considerable success with the hit single 'A Little Bird Told Me' in 1948, which topped the charts and became a defining song of the era. Her style blended traditional pop and easy listening, appealing to a wide audience. Continued to perform and record throughout the subsequent decades, contributing to a rich legacy in the American music scene.

Continue Reading

Butch van Breda Kolff

Basketball player and coach
Born
October 28th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 85 years old

Played college basketball at Lafayette College and later earned recognition as a head coach in NCAA basketball. Coached teams at the University of New York at Albany and at the University of New Orleans, leading a successful career in coaching. Served as a coach for several professional teams including the Detroit Pistons and the New Jersey Nets. Contributed to the game by influencing many young players and coaches during decades of involvement in basketball.

Continue Reading

Belinda Dann

Indigenous Australian reunited with family
Born
July 4th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
2007 19 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.

Continue Reading

Peter Aduja

Filipino-American politician, legislator
Born
October 19th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1920, a politician with significant influence in the Philippines and the United States. Served in the U.S. Congress, representing the interests of the Filipino community. Advocated for policies benefiting Filipino-Americans and worked towards improving the lives of constituents. Engaged in various legislative efforts throughout tenure.

Continue Reading

Kisho Kurokawa

Architect, designed Nakagin Capsule Tower
Born
April 8th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 73 years old

An architect who played a significant role in the Metabolism movement, focusing on innovative and modular designs. Designed the Nakagin Capsule Tower in Tokyo, a pioneering work in the field of urban architecture that showcased flexible living spaces. Also involved in large-scale projects such as the Singapore Flyer, which became one of the tallest observation wheels in the world. His architectural philosophy emphasized the relationship between nature and society, often blending technological advancements with organic elements.

Continue Reading

Atle Selberg

Mathematician and academic with Selberg trace
Born
June 14th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 90 years old

Significant contributions to number theory and mathematical analysis characterized the career. Developed the Selberg trace formula, a key result in the theory of automorphic forms. Published numerous papers and notably worked on the distribution of prime numbers. Taught at several institutions, including Princeton University, influencing future generations of mathematicians.

Continue Reading

Jesús de Polanco

Spanish publisher and businessman
Born
November 7th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 78 years old

Founded Prisa, a major media group in Spain. Played a significant role in the development of Spanish media after Franco's regime. Expanded the company into various sectors including print, television, and radio. Instrumental in launching the newspaper El País, which became one of Spain's leading daily newspapers.

Continue Reading