What Happened This Year 2012

People Who Died in 2012

Roberto Rexach Benítez

Puerto Rican politician and academic leader
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2012 12 years ago — 83 years old

Served as the 10th President of the Senate of Puerto Rico from 1993 to 1996. Contributed to various legislative efforts during tenure. Engaged in academic pursuits and held teaching positions, influencing education in Puerto Rico. Participated in political discussions around key issues affecting the country.

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Claude Miller

French film director and producer
Born
February 20th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2012 12 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent French director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to French cinema from the 1970s until the early 2010s. Worked on various films, many of which received critical acclaim. Notable works include 'La Meilleure Façon de marcher' and 'L'Ecole de la chair', showcasing a talent for character-driven storytelling and exploring complex human emotions. Also involved in producing and screenwriting, shaping the landscape of French film during his career.

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Anne Karin Elstad

Norwegian author and educator
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2012 12 years ago — 74 years old

An author with a strong focus on children's literature and young adult fiction. Worked as a teacher, influencing her approach to storytelling. Wrote several books, some of which explored themes of identity and societal issues. Several of these works are celebrated in Norwegian literature and have contributed to the national discourse on youth and education.

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A. Dean Byrd

Psychologist and academic expert
Born
1948 77 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2012 12 years ago — 64 years old

An American psychologist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of psychology with a focus on family therapy and behavioral health. Served as president of the American Association of Christian Counselors and was involved in various academic programs. Updated understanding of psychological practices through academic publications and presentations. Played a pivotal role in integrating faith into the counseling practice and education, championing the strengths of interdisciplinary approaches in mental health care. Actively participated in research and workshops to enhance professional development within the field.

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Barney McKenna

Irish musician and banjo player
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2012 12 years ago — 73 years old

Originally from Dublin, a prominent figure in Irish traditional music, playing the banjo and tenor banjo. Co-founded the famous folk group The Dubliners in 1962, which contributed significantly to the global popularity of Irish folk music. Performed for decades, showcasing unique instrumentation and storytelling in songs. Contributed to numerous albums and appeared in various television and festival events, promoting Irish cultural heritage. His work influenced many musicians in the genre, and he continued to perform until his passing in 2012.

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Bingu wa Mutharika

Malawian politician and economist
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2012 12 years ago — 78 years old

Held the position of the third President of Malawi from 2004 until 2012. Served as the Minister of Economic Planning and Development prior to presidency. Promoted agricultural policies and infrastructure development. Advocated for economic growth and modernization efforts during the tenure as president. Focused on food security initiatives to combat poverty.

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Pedro Bartolomé Benoit

Dominican politician and military officer
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2012 12 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent political figure and military officer in the Dominican Republic, this individual served in various governmental roles throughout a lengthy career. Played a critical role during the political upheavals of the 20th century and was involved in military operations and governance. Actively participated in shaping the military and political landscape of the Dominican Republic during a time of significant change. Security and military strategy were key areas of influence, leading to lasting implications on the country's political dynamics.

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Reed Whittemore

American poet and literary critic
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2012 12 years ago — 93 years old

Contributed significantly to American poetry and literary criticism. Served as the poetry editor for the American Review. Published numerous collections of poetry, reflecting a modernist style. Held academic positions, teaching at universities and influencing students in literature. Worked as a critic, reviewing and analyzing the works of contemporaries and established poets. Authored a biography of Robert Frost, further enriching the field of literary analysis.

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Fang Lizhi

Astrophysicist and Chinese academic
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2012 12 years ago — 76 years old

An astrophysicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of astrophysics, particularly in the studies concerning solar dynamics and the conditions of the universe. Served as a professor at the University of Science and Technology of China. Played an important role in the pro-democracy movement in China, advocating for political reform during the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989. After the crackdown, sought asylum in the United States and continued to engage in academic pursuits while critiquing the Chinese government's policies.

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