What Happened This Year 2012

People Who Died in 2012

Nicolaas Govert de Bruijn

Mathematician and theorist
Born
July 9th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 93 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of topology and combinatorial mathematics. Developed de Bruijn sequences, an important concept in combinatorics and information theory. Published numerous papers, advancing understanding of number theory and its applications. Held a long-term position at the Delft University of Technology, influencing the next generation of mathematicians.

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Vitaly Vorotnikov

Politician and 27th Prime Minister of Russia
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old

Served as the 27th Prime Minister of Russia from 1990 to 1991 during a period of significant political transformation. Held various governmental roles throughout a lengthy political career, including serving as the Chairman of the Council of Ministers in the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic. Oversaw economic reforms and the transition to a market economy during a turbulent time in Russian history. Participated in the reshaping of the government structure post-Soviet Union.

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Jaroslav Velinský

Czech author and songwriter
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2012 13 years ago — 80 years old

Velinský was a Czech author and songwriter who made significant contributions to literature and music. As a writer, produced numerous works that reflected the cultural and social landscape of Czech society. In the field of songwriting, crafted songs that resonated with many and were performed by notable artists. His literary style often blended narrative with lyrical elements, showing a deep understanding of both prose and poetry. Velinský's dual talents in writing and music allowed him to influence generations of Czech readers and listeners.

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Ruth Barcan Marcus

Philosopher specializing in logic
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old

Contributions focused on formal logic and philosophical issues related to quantification and necessity. Pioneered the Barcan formula, which established foundational principles in modal logic. Influenced discussions on the philosophy of language, epistemology, and metaphysics. Had an extensive academic career, holding positions at institutions such as Yale University. Authored multiple influential texts in the field of logic and philosophy.

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Katie Hall

American educator and politician
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old

An educator and politician contributed significantly to education policy and advocacy. Served in the Indiana House of Representatives from 1974 to 1982, focusing on improving educational opportunities. Her tenure included a commitment to addressing the needs of underrepresented communities. After her legislative career, served as the first African American elected to the Indiana Senate, where furthered initiatives aimed at educational reform and community development.

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H. M. Darmstandler

American General in the military
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2012 13 years ago — 90 years old

Served in the United States military, achieving the rank of general. Contributed to various operations during his career, reaching significant leadership positions. Participated in strategy formulation and implementation, influencing military policy. Managed troops in critical missions and training exercises, ensuring operational readiness and effectiveness.

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Frank Carson

Comedian and actor in British television
Born
November 6th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2012 13 years ago — 85 years old

Originated from Belfast, a career in comedy began in the 1960s. Gained popularity through appearances on television shows, particularly on 'The Comedians' which showcased a range of comedic talent. Acted in sitcoms and made frequent appearances on talent shows as a comedic performer. Notable for his engaging style and quick wit. Continued to perform in various venues, including theatres and clubs, throughout his life until health issues affected late career.

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Marie Colvin

War correspondent and journalist
Born
1956 69 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2012 13 years ago — 56 years old

Acclaimed for reporting from conflict zones, covered wars in countries such as Iraq, Kosovo, and Syria. Worked for The Sunday Times and was recognized for her fearless approach to journalism. Colvin's experiences included being wounded in Sri Lanka while covering the civil war. Delivered powerful accounts of the human cost of war through her writings, including a significant piece about the suffering in the besieged city of Homs during the Syrian Civil War. Her reporting exemplified the challenges faced by journalists operating in dangerous environments.

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Rémi Ochlik

Photographer recognized for conflict coverage
Born
1983 42 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2012 13 years ago — 29 years old

Worked predominantly as a war photographer and photojournalist. Documented various conflicts and humanitarian crises, with significant focus on the Syrian civil war. Contributed to major publications and received accolades for investigative photography. Was a finalist for the World Press Photo award in 2012, which highlighted the impact of his work in documenting the realities of war and its consequences.

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