What Happened This Year 2010

People Who Died in 2010

Takumi Shibano

Author and translator of Japanese literature
Born
October 27th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2010 15 years ago — 83 years old

An established author and translator, contributed significantly to Japanese literature through translation of various works into English. Engaged in promoting Japanese culture and literature internationally. Played a key role in introducing contemporary Japanese writers to global audiences.

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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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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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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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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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Earl Wild

American pianist and composer
Born
November 26th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2010 15 years ago — 94 years old

Earl Wild, an American pianist and composer, gained recognition for exquisite performances and compositions in the classical music genre. He studied under notable teachers and developed a virtuosic piano technique that drew admiration from audiences worldwide. Wild's career spanned several decades, during which he performed both as a soloist and with prominent orchestras. His interpretations of works by composers such as Franz Liszt were particularly acclaimed. In addition to performance, Wild composed numerous original works and transcriptions for piano, significantly contributing to the repertoire. His artistry includes recordings that have received critical acclaim, showcasing his contributions to both performance and composition.

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