What Happened This Year 2007

People Who Died in 2007

Viktor Prokopenko

Ukrainian footballer and manager
Born
October 24th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 63 years old

Played as a professional footballer and later transitioned into management. Had a significant playing career predominantly with FC Dynamo Kyiv, contributing to the team's success in the Soviet Top League. After retiring as a player, began a managerial career, taking charge of several clubs including FC Mavritania and FC Torpedo Moscow. Held a position as a national team manager, leading the Ukraine national team during key tournaments.

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Carl-Henning Pedersen

Danish painter and sculptor, abstractionist
Born
September 23rd, 1913 111 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 94 years old

Associated with the CoBrA art movement, a Danish painter and sculptor contributed significantly to abstract art. Focused on bright colors and organic shapes, the work explored themes of nature and mythology. Held multiple exhibitions in Denmark and internationally, showcasing a distinctive style that blended figurative and abstract elements. Worked in various mediums, including painting and sculpture, highlighting influences from Surrealism and Expressionism. Contributed to Danish art through innovative techniques and an emphasis on personal expression.

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Sri Chinmoy

Indian-American guru and poet
Born
August 27th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 76 years old

Sri Chinmoy was a spiritual leader and poet, who founded the Sri Chinmoy Centre in 1966. Emphasizing the importance of meditation and self-discovery, he offered various programs, including meditation classes, concerts, and community service initiatives. His work integrated spirituality and artistic expression, allowing individuals to explore personal growth through creativity. He authored over 150 books and composed thousands of songs, establishing a significant presence in the spiritual community. His teachings often drew from Eastern spirituality, particularly focusing on inner peace and self-improvement.

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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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Enzo Biagi

Journalist and author; wrote 'Il Giornale'
Born
August 9th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Italy, contributed significantly to journalism as a writer and television presenter. Worked for major newspapers including 'Il Giornale' and served as a political correspondent. Biagi hosted a successful television program that addressed various political and social issues, showcasing interviews with prominent figures. Authored several books reflecting on politics and society, becoming a respected voice in Italian media. His career spanned decades, leaving a legacy in journalism and commentary.

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John Compton

Saint Lucian lawyer and Prime Minister
Born
April 29th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent lawyer, served as the first Prime Minister of Saint Lucia from 1979 to 1980 and again from 1982 to 1996. Played a significant role in the country's political landscape during its early years of independence. Contributed to the formulation of national policies and governance structures that shaped the nation's development. His leadership marked a transition in Saint Lucia towards self-governance and independence.

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Rodney Cotterill

Physicist and neuroscientist
Born
September 27th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 74 years old

A physicist and neuroscientist contributed to the understanding of neural computation and brain function. Advanced theories in cognitive neuroscience and developed models for delayed response tasks. Participated in research that integrated principles from physics into neuroscience, enhancing the comprehension of neural networks. Worked at various academic institutions, focusing on the dynamics of human cognition.

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Bill Hartack

American jockey with multiple victories
Born
December 9th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1932, this individual emerged as a prominent figure in horse racing. Competing in the industry from the 1950s to the 1970s, a successful career included winning various prestigious races. Achievements include three victories in the Kentucky Derby, one of the sport's most coveted titles, along with notable triumphs in other significant events such as the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes. Recognized for extraordinary skill and speed, the jockey left a lasting legacy in the competitive world of horse racing.

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Wilbur Norman Christiansen

Australian astronomer and engineer
Born
August 9th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 94 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy and engineering. Worked extensively on the development of astronomical instruments, particularly in radio astronomy. Played a crucial role in establishing observatories and improving observational techniques. Engaged in research that helped advance the understanding of celestial phenomena through technological innovations.

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