What Happened This Year 2012

People Who Died in 2012

Daniel Inouye

U.S. Senator and Medal of Honor recipient
Born
September 7th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2012 12 years ago — 88 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from Hawaii for nearly 50 years, representing the state in numerous important legislative matters. Participated in World War II as a member of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, the most decorated unit in American military history. Received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during combat on April 21, 1945. Throughout Senate career, focused on issues such as civil rights, health care, and veteran affairs, significantly shaping policies affecting these areas.

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Laurier LaPierre

Historian and politician in Canada
Born
November 21st, 1929 95 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2012 12 years ago — 83 years old

A historian, journalist, and politician contributed significantly to the Canadian political landscape. Served as a Member of Parliament and played a role in the Liberal party. Worked extensively in media, including roles with the CBC, where discussions on historical and political issues were prominent. Authored several works examining Canadian identity and history, helping to shape the national narrative. Engaged in various political and cultural discussions, often appearing as a commentator.

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James Gower

American priest and activist
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2012 12 years ago — 90 years old

Co-founded the College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor, Maine, focusing on environmental and social sustainability in education. Worked to integrate spirituality and activism, emphasizing community service and social justice. Engaged in various initiatives promoting ecological responsibility and education for all.

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Mustafa Ould Salek

Colonel and President of Mauritania
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2012 12 years ago — 76 years old

Colonel and politician served as President of Mauritania from 1978 until 1979. Ould Salek came to power following a military coup that ousted the previous president. His administration focused on stabilizing the country during a period of political turmoil and economic difficulty. The tenure was marked by efforts to address issues in governance and military reforms. After stepping down from the presidency, he continued to be involved in Mauritanian politics.

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Anatoliy Zayaev

Ukrainian footballer and manager
Born
October 27th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2012 12 years ago — 81 years old

This individual played as a forward and had a significant career in the Soviet football leagues. Achieved success with FC Spartak Moscow, contributing to their prominent victories. Transitioned to coaching, leading various teams in the Soviet Union and Ukraine, including the Ukrainian national team. His management style emphasized team cohesion and discipline, guiding clubs to several championships.

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Robert Bork

American lawyer and Attorney General
Born
March 1st, 1927 98 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2012 12 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the United States Attorney General and was a prominent legal scholar. Played a significant role in the legal philosophy surrounding originalism and textualism. Nominated to the Supreme Court in 1987 but was not confirmed. Authored several influential books on legal theory and constitutional interpretation.

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Amnon Lipkin-Shahak

Israeli general and Transportation Minister
Born
March 18th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2012 12 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1944, a significant figure in Israeli military and political spheres, served as an IDF general and held the position of 22nd Transportation Minister of Israel. Participated in several key military operations, contributing to national defense strategies. In the political arena, engaged in transportation policies aiming to enhance infrastructure and connectivity across the nation.

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Larry Morris

American football linebacker, NFL champion
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2012 12 years ago — 79 years old

Played as a linebacker for the Chicago Bears and Los Angeles Rams during the 1960s. Achieved significant recognition for contributions to the Bears' defense, which helped secure an NFL Championship in 1963. Participated in multiple Pro Bowls, demonstrating exceptional skills and performance on the field. After retiring, remained involved in football as a coach.

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Peter Struck

German politician and former defense minister
Born
January 24th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2012 12 years ago — 69 years old

Served as the 13th Federal Minister of Defence in Germany from 2002 to 2005. Led the ministry during a period of military engagement in Afghanistan as part of NATO operations. Held the position of chairman of the SPD parliamentary group in the Bundestag. Active in several key defense policy discussions during a critical phase for Germany’s role in international security.

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