What Happened This Year 2007

People Who Died in 2007

Clem Jones

Surveyor and Lord Mayor of Brisbane
Born
January 16th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 89 years old

A surveyor and politician served as the eighth Lord Mayor of Brisbane from 1961 to 1975. Major contributions included improving infrastructure and public services within Brisbane. Jones played a significant role in promoting urban development and enhancing community facilities during his tenure. His work focused on fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for residents.

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Alice Timander

Swedish dentist and actress
Born
October 6th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1915, this individual practiced dentistry while also establishing a career in film and theater. Participating in various productions, significant work included roles in the films 'Suxxess' and 'Kopps'. The dual career spanned several decades, where a combination of dentistry and acting defined professional life.

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Zola Taylor

American singer with The Platters
Born
March 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1938, a singer contributed significantly to the doo-wop and R&B genres as a member of The Platters. The group achieved widespread success in the 1950s, becoming one of the most popular vocal groups of the era. Known for hits such as 'Only You' and 'The Great Pretender', The Platters were noted for their smooth harmonies and distinct style. Taylor's vocal talent played a crucial role in the group's success, which included numerous chart-topping singles and performances on television shows.

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Parren Mitchell

American politician and civil rights advocate
Born
April 29th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 85 years old

Served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1971 to 1987, representing Maryland's 7th congressional district. Advocated for civil rights and economic opportunities for African Americans during a time of significant social change. Played a role in various legislative efforts aimed at improving conditions for minorities and underprivileged communities. Contributed to housing policies and programs during tenure, addressing urban issues and focusing on equal opportunities. Worked as the first African American elected to the Maryland State Legislature prior to congressional career.

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Rudolf Arnheim

Psychologist and author of art theory
Born
July 15th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 103 years old

Born in Germany, a psychologist and author focused on the psychology of art, visual perception, and creativity. Emigrated to the United States in 1938 due to the rise of the Nazi regime. Taught at various institutions including Bard College and the University of Illinois. Authored several influential works on the relationship between psychology and art, particularly 'Art and Visual Perception', which presents theories on how visual experiences impact art appreciation. Contributed to both the fields of art and psychology through interdisciplinary approaches.

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Carey Bell

American blues harmonica player
Born
November 14th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 71 years old

A significant figure in the Chicago blues scene, contributed to the genre's evolution through expressive harmonica playing and powerful vocals. Released several albums, including 'Heartaches and Pain' and 'Blues Harp'. Collaborated with various artists, enhancing the blues genre with unique style and technique.

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Jesús de Polanco

Spanish publisher and businessman
Born
November 7th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2007 18 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.

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Atle Selberg

Mathematician and academic with Selberg trace
Born
June 14th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2007 18 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.

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Peter Aduja

Filipino-American politician, legislator
Born
October 19th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2007 18 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.

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