What Happened This Year 2008

People Who Died in 2008

Imad Mughniyah

Lebanese militant and military leader
Born
December 7th, 1962 62 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 46 years old

Involved in organizing military operations for Hezbollah, played a significant role in the group's strategic planning and execution. Mughniyah held key positions within Hezbollah's leadership and was instrumental in the group's military tactics during conflicts, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s. His operations included involvement in high-profile attacks against military and civilian targets, as well as kidnappings. Mughniyah's activities attracted the attention of several intelligence agencies worldwide, leading to his classification as a major figure in international terrorism.

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Kermit Love

American puppeteer and costume designer
Born
August 7th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 92 years old

A puppeteer and costume designer contributed significantly to the world of children's entertainment. Worked closely with Jim Henson, creating beloved characters for 'Sesame Street' and 'The Muppet Show'. Developed innovative costume designs and puppetry techniques that enhanced live performances. Collaborated on various stage productions, further expanding the artistry of puppet theater.

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Dino Risi

Italian director and screenwriter
Born
December 23rd, 1916 108 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 92 years old

Contributed significantly to Italian cinema with a career spanning several decades. Directed numerous films that explored themes of comedy and social critique. Collaborated with prominent actors and screenwriters, gaining recognition within the Italian film industry. Received accolades for contributions to film, including the David di Donatello and a Silver Bear at the Berlin Film Festival. His works often reflected the complexities of Italian life during the 20th century.

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Willis Lamb

American physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 12th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 95 years old

A physicist and academic contributed to the field of quantum electronics. Developed the Lamb shift phenomenon in hydrogen, which provided significant insights into quantum electrodynamics. Held faculty positions at several institutions, including the California Institute of Technology. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1955 for work on the interaction of photons with electrons.

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Gianni Raimondi

Italian lyric tenor, La Traviata
Born
April 17th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 85 years old

A celebrated lyric tenor, renowned for roles in various operas, particularly excelled in performances of La Traviata, Tosca, and Rigoletto. His career spanned several decades, during which he performed at prestigious venues worldwide, including La Scala in Milan and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Alongside a rich solo career, he collaborated extensively with esteemed conductors and musicians, contributing to numerous recordings that showcased his vocal artistry. Teaching also played a significant role in his life, mentoring the next generation of opera singers. His contributions to the field of opera earned recognition and admiration.

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Ferenc Fejtő

Journalist and political scientist
Born
August 31st, 1909 115 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 99 years old

Born in Hungary in 1909, a journalist and political scientist made significant contributions to political theory and journalism in Europe. After fleeing Hungary in the early 1950s due to the political climate, spent many years in France, where extensive writing on Hungarian politics, European integration, and international relations took place. Writings often focused on the impact of totalitarian regimes and the importance of democracy. Worked for various publications and contributed to scholarly discourse on political matters, especially regarding Central and Eastern Europe.

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Sean Levert

R&B singer-songwriter and actor
Born
September 28th, 1968 56 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 40 years old

An R&B singer-songwriter and actor, he gained prominence in the 1990s through both music and television. As a member of the successful group LeVert, significant contributions were made to the R&B genre, leading to multiple chart-topping hits. Also appeared in the television series 'The New Edition Story' which highlighted the rise of the R&B group New Edition. The musical style combined elements of soul and funk, achieving substantial recognition during the peak years of R&B.

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Don S. Davis

Actor in 'Stargate SG-1' and 'Twin Peaks'
Born
August 4th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 66 years old

An American actor, recognized for roles in television and film. Gained prominence through the character of Major General George Hammond in the series 'Stargate SG-1'. Appeared as the character Philip Gerard in 'Twin Peaks', contributing to the show's cult status. Also had a background in theater and performed in various productions. Engaged in voice acting for animations, adding depth to various characters.

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Ton van Heugten

Motocross racer with championship titles
Born
September 9th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1945, a motocross racer achieved prominence in the sport during the 1970s. Competed in various national and international competitions, showcasing exceptional skill and determination. Made significant contributions to motocross in the Netherlands, participating in events that highlighted the athleticism and competitiveness of the sport.

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