What Happened This Year 2008

People Who Died in 2008

Dorival Caymmi

Brazilian singer-songwriter and artist
Born
April 30th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2008 16 years ago — 94 years old

Born in 1914, a prominent Brazilian singer-songwriter and painter, contributed significantly to the musical landscape of Brazil. Focused on the cultural themes of Bahia, his work blended regional influences with popular music. Caymmi's compositions gained popularity within Brazilian music circles and beyond. In addition to music, engaged in painting, complementing his artistic portfolio. Enjoyed a fruitful career in entertainment, influencing generations of musicians.

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Masanobu Fukuoka

Japanese farmer and author of Natural Farming
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2008 16 years ago — 95 years old

Pioneered a farming philosophy emphasizing minimal intervention in nature. Developed a system called 'Natural Farming' that advocated for no-till agriculture and use of cover crops. Authored several influential books including 'The One-Straw Revolution,' which described his practices and philosophy. Fukuoka's techniques inspired sustainable agriculture movements worldwide, promoting ecological balance and biodiversity.

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Franco Sensi

Italian businessman and politician
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2008 16 years ago — 82 years old

A businessman and politician involved in the sports sector, influential in the management of a major football club. Served as president of AS Roma, overseeing significant successes during tenure. Engaged in various social initiatives, contributing to community development. Worked to promote the football club and enhance its reputation both locally and internationally.

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Levy Mwanawasa

Zambian politician and lawyer, President
Born
September 3rd, 1948 76 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2008 16 years ago — 59 years old

Served as the 3rd President of Zambia from 2002 until 2008. Prior to the presidency, engaged in law as a prominent lawyer and politician. Focused on anti-corruption initiatives and governance reform. Championed economic development and social change during the administration. Also served as a Member of Parliament and held the position of Minister of Justice.

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Hua Guofeng

Chinese politician, 2nd Premier of China
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2008 16 years ago — 87 years old

Served as a prominent political figure in China during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Held the position of Premier from 1976 to 1980, succeeding Zhou Enlai, and served as Chairman of the Communist Party of China. Played a significant role in the transition following Mao Zedong's death, promoting policies that continued the direction of economic reform initiated by Deng Xiaoping. Advocated for agricultural and economic improvements as part of the modernization agenda. Oversaw China's state affairs during a critical period in its history, influencing political stability and reforms.

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Stephanie Tubbs Jones

American politician and lawyer
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2008 16 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent figure in American politics, served as a U.S. Representative for Ohio's 11th congressional district from 1999 until passing in 2008. Elected as the first African American woman to represent Ohio in Congress, advocated for education, healthcare, and civil rights. Prior to congressional service, held positions including the first female assistant county prosecutor in Cuyahoga County and judge in the Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court. Active in numerous local and national organizations, focused efforts on promoting social justice and economic equality.

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Ed Freeman

Medal of Honor recipient and soldier
Born
November 20th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2008 16 years ago — 80 years old

Served as a soldier and helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. Participated in the Battle of Ia Drang, where he made multiple rescue flights to evacuate wounded soldiers under enemy fire. Demonstrated exceptional bravery and dedication, which led to the awarding of the Medal of Honor for actions during this conflict. Later had a career in various roles, including leadership positions within the military. His legacy is honored through the recognition of his courage and service.

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Gene Upshaw

American football player and executive
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2008 16 years ago — 63 years old

A professional American football player, played as a guard for the Oakland Raiders in the National Football League (NFL) from 1967 to 1981. Contributed to the team's victory in Super Bowl XI, Super Bowl XV, and Super Bowl XVIII. After retirement, served as the executive director of the NFL Players Association, advocating for players' rights and welfare throughout the league. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987, recognized for exceptional performance and leadership on and off the field.

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Jerry Finn

Record producer and audio engineer
Born
1969 56 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2008 16 years ago — 39 years old

An American engineer and producer, contributed to the punk rock genre and alternative rock music. Collaborated with various well-known artists, impacting the sound of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Produced the album 'Enema of the State' by Blink-182, which became a defining record for pop-punk music. Worked with other notable bands such as Green Day, Against Me!, and AFI, leaving a significant mark on the music industry through innovative production techniques.

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