What Happened This Year 2010

People Who Died in 2010

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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Gaines Adams

American football defensive end
Born
1983 42 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2010 15 years ago — 27 years old

Played as a defensive end in American football. Drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2007. After three seasons with the Buccaneers, played for the Chicago Bears in 2010. Known for his collegiate career at Clemson, where he earned All-American honors. Contributed to teams with strong defensive skills and agility on the field. Passed away in 2010 after a heart condition.

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Jyoti Basu

Indian politician and Chief Minister
Born
July 8th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2010 15 years ago — 95 years old

Served as the 9th Chief Minister of West Bengal from 1977 to 2000. Played a significant role in the Indian political landscape, particularly as a leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist). Led a government that was one of the longest-serving democratically elected communist governments in the world. Instrumental in promoting social welfare programs and agrarian reforms in the state, impacting the lives of many citizens. Resigned from the role in 2000 and became an influential figure in Indian politics until his death in 2010.

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Erich Segal

American author and screenwriter
Born
June 16th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2010 15 years ago — 72 years old

An author and screenwriter, contributed significantly to literature and film. Graduated from Harvard University and taught classics at Yale University. Achieved notoriety with the best-selling novel 'Love Story', which explored themes of love and loss. Also wrote screenplays, including 'Yellow Submarine'. His works often focused on romantic relationships and social issues, resonating with a wide audience and becoming cultural touchstones.

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Robert B. Parker

Author of Spencer detective novels
Born
September 17th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2010 15 years ago — 77 years old

An American author and academic, this individual gained prominence for creating the iconic detective character Spencer, appearing in a series of novels that began in the 1970s. The Spencer series showcased a mix of traditional mystery elements with a modern, hard-boiled style. Beyond this, the individual wrote several other book series, including those featuring Jesse Stone and Sunny Randall. The prolific writer's works contributed significantly to the crime fiction genre, and many were adapted into television films. Academic pursuits included teaching writing at the university level, further influencing the next generation of authors.

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Kate McGarrigle

Canadian singer-songwriter and musician
Born
February 6th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2010 15 years ago — 63 years old

A Canadian singer-songwriter active primarily in folk music. Part of the McGarrigle Sisters duo alongside sister Anna, produced several albums that garnered critical acclaim. The duo performed internationally and contributed to the folk music scene in Canada and beyond. Collaborated with various artists, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary folk styles. The McGarrigle Sisters' music often incorporated elements of storytelling, drawing on personal and cultural themes.

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Paul Quarrington

Canadian author and playwright with acclaim
Born
1953 72 years ago
Died
January 21st, 2010 15 years ago — 57 years old

An influential author and playwright, produced a variety of literary works that explored Canadian culture and identity. Wrote the novels 'King Leary' and 'The Ravine', both of which received critical attention. In addition to fiction, created compelling plays and contributed to the music scene as a guitarist and composer. Achievements included winning the Governor General's Award for Fiction, which recognized significant contributions to Canadian literature. Active in various literary circles, fostered a community of writers and artists throughout his career.

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Jean Simmons

English-American actress in films
Born
January 31st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2010 15 years ago — 80 years old

An actress active in film and television from the 1940s to the 2000s. Achieved prominence with roles in classic films including 'Black Narcissus' and 'Great Expectations'. Received an Academy Award nomination for her performance in 'Hamlet' and earned acclaim for her work in 'Guys and Dolls'. Engaged with the industry through both drama and musical genres, contributing to a wide body of work across multiple decades. Also known for collaborations with notable directors and other prominent actors of the time.

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Kermit Tyler

American colonel and pilot
Born
April 13th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2010 15 years ago — 96 years old

A colonel in the United States Army, served as a pilot and played a critical role during World War II. Participated in significant military operations, demonstrating skills in aviation and leadership. Post-war, contributed to the development of advanced military aviation tactics and technology. Engaged in mentorship roles for upcoming aviators, influencing military flight training programs. Continued to serve in various capacities within the Army, taking part in important strategic planning initiatives.

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