What Happened This Year 2010

People Who Died in 2010

Art Clokey

Animator of Gumby and animation pioneer
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2010 15 years ago — 89 years old

American animator created the character Gumby, an iconic stop-motion clay figure. Developed a distinctive style that utilized clay modeling, contributing significantly to the art of animation. Founded the production company Clokey Productions, producing educational and entertainment content. Directed and produced several animated shorts and television series throughout the 1950s to the 1980s. Gumby became a cultural icon, appearing in various merchandise, films, and spin-offs, which contributed to its popularity across generations.

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Patcha Ramachandra Rao

Indian metallurgist and educator
Born
March 21st, 1942 82 years ago
Died
January 10th, 2010 15 years ago — 67 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of metallurgy through academic and administrative roles. Served as the Director of the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, enhancing research and education in engineering. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of several academic institutions and contributed to various metallurgical processes and technologies. Was involved in numerous research projects and published extensively in metallurgy, focusing on materials science and engineering.

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Éric Rohmer

Film director and screenwriter
Born
March 21st, 1920 104 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2010 15 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent French director, screenwriter, and critic, made significant contributions to the French New Wave movement. Directed films characterized by their focus on moral dilemmas and complex character studies. Gained attention for a series of films based on the seasons, including 'Claire's Knee' and 'Summer'. Involved in film criticism, writing extensively for publications and showcasing insights into cinema. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film for 'The Green Ray'.

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Miep Gies

Humanitarian and protector of Anne Frank
Born
February 15th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2010 15 years ago — 100 years old

Born in Austria and later moving to the Netherlands, played a significant role in hiding Jewish families during World War II. Assisted in the concealment of Anne Frank and her family in Amsterdam from 1942 to 1944. After the family was discovered, retrieved and preserved Anne Frank's diary, ensuring its publication after the war. Worked tirelessly to promote human rights and shared Anne Frank's story globally until death in 2010.

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Daniel Bensaïd

French philosopher and author of major works
Born
March 25th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2010 15 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent philosopher and Marxist theorist, contributions included analyses of politics, philosophy, and social movements. Authored significant texts such as 'For a Left Upon the Horizon' and 'The Dispossessed'. Engaged in activism and theoretical work throughout the late 20th century. Bensaïd's writings explored themes of history, revolution, and the critique of capitalism.

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Hasib Sabbagh

Businessman, co-founder of CCC
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2010 15 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent Palestinian businessman and philanthropist, co-founded the Consolidated Contractors Company, which became one of the largest construction companies in the Middle East. Established a reputation for major infrastructure projects across various countries. Contributed significantly to socio-economic development initiatives in Palestine and the region. Played an active role in fostering partnerships in the business community through various organizations.

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Teddy Pendergrass

Soul singer-songwriter and performer
Born
March 26th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2010 15 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent soul and R&B singer-songwriter, achieved significant success in the 1970s and 1980s. Initially served as the lead vocalist of Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, where chart-topping hits included 'If You Don't Know Me by Now'. Following a successful solo career, released several acclaimed albums, including 'Teddy Pendergrass', which featured the hit single 'Love TKO'. After a tragic accident in 1982 that left him paralyzed, continued to perform and inspire through music, releasing albums and participating in charity events. The heartfelt music and powerful performances solidified a lasting legacy in the music industry.

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Antonio Fontán

Spanish journalist and academic
Born
October 15th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2010 15 years ago — 86 years old

Contributed significantly to journalism and academia in Spain. Served as the director of the newspaper ABC during a crucial period in Spanish history. Influenced public opinion and political discourse through journalism. Held the position of Professor of Journalism at the Complutense University of Madrid, where nurtured future generations of journalists. Participated actively in the cultural and intellectual life of Spain during transitions in the 20th century.

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Glen Bell

Founder of Taco Bell restaurant chain
Born
September 3rd, 1923 101 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2010 15 years ago — 86 years old

An American businessman founded a fast-food restaurant chain specializing in Mexican-inspired food. The first location opened in Downey, California, in 1962. The chain grew rapidly, becoming a staple of American cuisine and a significant player in the fast-food industry. The brand expanded extensively throughout the United States and beyond, introducing a variety of menu items that became popular across demographics. Under his leadership, Taco Bell went public in 1970 and was later acquired by PepsiCo in 1978. His entrepreneurial spirit contributed to the taco's transformation into an iconic fast-food item.

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