What Happened This Year 2008

People Who Died in 2008

Gertan Klauber

Czech-English actor in film and TV
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
August 1st, 2008 16 years ago — 76 years old

This actor gained recognition for roles in British television and film. His career spanned several decades, featuring performances in productions such as 'The Man in the White Suit', 'The Saint', and the long-running series 'Coronation Street'. Klauber also appeared in various feature films and television programs, contributing to the entertainment industry during the latter half of the 20th century. His work encompassed both comedic and dramatic roles, leading to a significant presence in British media.

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Fujio Akatsuka

Japanese illustrator and manga artist
Born
September 14th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 2008 16 years ago — 72 years old

An influential manga artist and illustrator contributed significantly to the world of Japanese comics. Created the well-known series 'Tensai Bakabon', which debuted in the 1960s and showcased a unique blend of humor and social commentary. Also developed 'Akatsuka Fujio no Shōnen' and created characters that resonated with a broad audience. His work pioneered narratives in manga that explored family dynamics and societal quirks, influencing countless artists in the genre. Established a legacy within the manga community, inspiring many future creators to pursue their artistic visions.

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Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn

Russian novelist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 11th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 2008 16 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent Russian novelist and historian, this individual gained recognition for literary works addressing the moral and social issues of Soviet society. The most notable work is 'One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich', detailing the brutal conditions of a Soviet labor camp. The writings condemned totalitarianism and illuminated the human experience under oppression. This person’s contributions to literature earned a Nobel Prize in Literature in 1970.

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Skip Caray

American sportscaster famous for baseball
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 2008 16 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent sportscaster, recognized for providing commentary on Major League Baseball, particularly for the Atlanta Braves. Spent over three decades with the Braves, serving as the team's lead play-by-play announcer. Partnered with various analysts and commentators, contributing to the team’s broadcast during both regular-season games and playoff series. Received numerous accolades for broadcasting excellence and was admired for a distinctive voice and engaging storytelling style. His work on Braves broadcasts contributed to the team’s growing popularity in the late 20th century.

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Craig Jones

English motorcycle racer
Born
1985 40 years ago
Died
August 4th, 2008 16 years ago — 23 years old

A professional motorcycle racer achieved prominence in the sport with significant performances in the British Superbike Championship and the World Supersport Championship. Competed for teams such as Renegade Ducati and represented various brands throughout a racing career that developed notable skills and techniques on the track. Tragically lost life in a racing accident, leaving behind a legacy as a competitive rider within the motorcycle racing community.

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Reg Lindsay

Australian singer-songwriter and musician
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2008 16 years ago — 79 years old

Active in the Australian music scene, contributed significantly to country music. Released numerous albums and singles throughout a career spanning several decades. Achieved widespread recognition in the 1970s and 1980s. Hosted popular television programs, showcasing Australian music and culture. Garnered several awards, including induction into the Australian Country Music Hall of Fame.

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Neil Bartlett

Chemist known for discovering noble gas compounds
Born
September 15th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2008 16 years ago — 75 years old

An English-American chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, particularly in the study of noble gases. Bartlett's most noteworthy accomplishment was the synthesis of the first known compound of a noble gas, xenon tetrafluoride, in 1962. This groundbreaking work expanded the understanding of noble gas reactivity and paved the way for further research in inorganic chemistry. Over the years, held various academic positions, including a professorship at the University of California, Berkeley, where continued to influence and guide future chemists. Authored numerous papers and publications, contributing to scientific literature and education in the field.

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Bernie Mac

Comedian and actor from The Bernie Mac Show
Born
October 5th, 1957 67 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2008 16 years ago — 50 years old

Born in 1957, a comedian, actor, producer, and screenwriter. Gained fame through stand-up comedy performances, including appearances on HBO's Def Comedy Jam. Starred in The Bernie Mac Show, which aired from 2001 to 2006 and earned critical acclaim. Appeared in films such as Ocean's Eleven, Ocean's Twelve, and Guess Who. Advocated for eugenics research and was involved in several philanthropic efforts. Passed away in 2008.

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Mahmoud Darwish

Palestinian poet and author
Born
March 13th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2008 16 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1942, a prominent Palestinian poet and author, often regarded as the voice of the Palestinian experience. His poetry reflects themes of loss, exile, and identity. Darwish's work includes over thirty collections of poetry and several volumes of prose, which gained international recognition. Long-lasting influence can be seen in the Arab literary world and beyond, shaping cultural discourse around Palestinian identity and resilience.

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