What Happened This Year 2010

People Who Died in 2010

Marcel Bigeard

French military general and strategist
Born
February 14th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 94 years old

Born in 1916, a French military general served in World War II and the Indochina War. Bigeard was instrumental in the Algerian War and commanded French troops during key operations. His strategic approaches contributed to paratrooper tactics and counterinsurgency warfare. After military service, Bigeard became a prominent figure in French defense policy debates.

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Walter Hawkins

Gospel music singer and pastor
Born
May 18th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1949, a prominent figure in American gospel music, served as a pastor and recorded several influential albums. Founded the Love Center Church in Oakland, California. Pioneered contemporary gospel music, blending traditional hymns with modern sounds. Achieved significant acclaim in the gospel music community.

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Shoya Tomizawa

Japanese motorcycle racer, Moto2 champion
Born
December 10th, 1990 35 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 20 years old

A professional motorcycle racer from Japan, achieved success in the Moto2 World Championship. Competed in the 125cc World Championship for several seasons and earned multiple wins. Tragically, an accident during a race in 2010 led to his untimely death, which had a profound impact on the motorsport community.

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Ladislav Smoljak

Czech actor and director of comedy
Born
December 9th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent figure in Czech theater and film, contribution to the arts included roles in noted works and the direction of various productions. Worked closely with the legendary Jiří Šebánek, creating memorable projects that shaped Czech entertainment. Served as a director for the popular satirical series 'Vesnicko má středisková', which garnered significant attention for its humor and social commentary. In addition, helmed several successful theatrical plays, cementing a legacy in Czech culture. His collaborations with other artists left a lasting imprint on the landscape of Czech comedy.

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Marina Semyonova

Ballerina and influential educator
Born
June 12th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 102 years old

Born in 1908, a prominent Russian ballerina and revered ballet teacher. Joined the Bolshoi Theatre, becoming a principal dancer and performed lead roles in productions such as 'Swan Lake' and 'The Nutcracker.' Played a significant role in the development of ballet pedagogy in the Soviet Union. Served as a professor at the Moscow State Academy of Choreography, influencing generations of dancers. Instrumental in establishing ballet's educational framework in Russia, shaping the future of ballet training.

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Harry Männil

Businessman, co-founder of ACO Group
Born
May 17th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 90 years old

Co-founded ACO Group, a successful construction and engineering company, which operated in various international markets. Established significant business operations that contributed to economic development. Worked on various projects related to construction and engineering, reflecting an entrepreneurial spirit. Played a vital role in the growth and expansion of the company, leading it to become a recognized name in the industry.

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Vladimir Arnold

Mathematician and academic in mathematics
Born
June 12th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed significantly to various fields of mathematics, including topology, differential equations, and singularity theory. Developed the concept of smooth dynamical systems and investigated stability and bifurcation phenomena. Published numerous influential papers and worked on mathematical education, emphasizing problem-solving and creativity in teaching mathematics. Arnold played a key role in the popularization of mathematics in Russia and beyond, and was involved in mathematical competitions for students, inspiring a new generation of mathematicians.

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Robert F. Boyle

Production designer for iconic films
Born
October 10th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 101 years old

A key figure in the film industry, played a significant role in the art direction of several classic movies. Work included contributions to major films such as "North by Northwest" and "The Birds," shaping the visual style and atmosphere of these Alfred Hitchcock classics. Received an Academy Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2010 for exceptional contributions to the art of film. Continuously worked in film from the 1930s through the 2000s, influencing generations of production designers.

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Motoichi Kumagai

Japanese photographer and illustrator
Born
July 12th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 101 years old

A Japanese photographer and illustrator, active during the 20th century, Kumagai contributed significantly to the field of photography and visual art. Renowned for capturing the essence of Japanese culture and landscape, work reflected traditional and contemporary themes. Illustrations featured in notable publications and exhibitions showcased the intricate beauty of Japan. The ability to blend photography with illustration created a unique signature style that resonated both nationally and internationally. Kumagai's legacy endures through various works that document and celebrate Japan's visual narrative.

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