What Happened This Year 2012

People Who Died in 2012

Miriam Ben-Porat

Israeli jurist and Supreme Court justice
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2012 12 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent lawyer and legal scholar, played a significant role in the Israeli legal system. Served as a judge in the Israeli Supreme Court, contributing to numerous landmark rulings. Held the position of State Attorney and worked on various legal reforms. Participated actively in international legal forums, enhancing the representation of Israeli jurisprudence on global platforms.

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Karl Benjamin

American painter and educator
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2012 12 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent figure in the American art scene, the individual contributed significantly to the development of Abstract Expressionism and Color Field painting. As an educator, taught at various institutions, including the Claremont Colleges, influencing generations of artists. Worked extensively with geometric forms and vibrant colors. Exhibited in numerous galleries and museums, highlighting a unique approach to abstraction.

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Lupe Ontiveros

American actress in film and television
Born
September 17th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2012 12 years ago — 69 years old

An accomplished actress, recognized for roles in both film and television, particularly in projects that delve into Hispanic culture and identity. Achievements include significant performances in 'Selena' as the mother of Selena Quintanilla and in 'The Goonies' portraying the character of Rosalita. Career spanned over several decades, showcasing talents across a variety of genres and platforms.

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Darryl Cotton

Australian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
September 4th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2012 12 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent figure in the Australian music scene, played in the band Zoot during the late 1960s and contributed significantly to the pop-rock genre. After Zoot disbanded, embarked on a solo career producing hits throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Released several successful albums and had multiple chart-topping singles. Involved in various music and charity events, showcasing songwriting and vocal talents. Also appeared on television, including roles in popular musical-themed shows.

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R. G. Armstrong

American actor and playwright
Born
April 7th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2012 12 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent figure in American theatre and film, this actor had a significant presence on both stage and screen. Work included roles in films such as 'The Great White Hope' and 'The Longest Yard', along with television appearances in series like 'The Twilight Zone' and 'Gunsmoke'. In addition to acting, also contributed as a playwright, showcasing talents in crafting narratives. Spanning a career that included performances across multiple genres, became recognized for versatility as an actor. Active in the industry for several decades, left a lasting imprint on both contemporary and classic theatrical productions.

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Norman Alden

American Actor in film and television
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2012 12 years ago — 88 years old

An accomplished actor active from the 1950s through the 2000s, contributed to both television and film. Worked extensively in voice acting, lending talent to animated series and films. Featured in significant roles across various platforms, including guest appearances on popular television shows. Made notable contributions to the cinema as well, including appearances in films that achieved cult status.

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Geoffrey Hughes

English actor in television and film
Born
February 2nd, 1944 81 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2012 12 years ago — 68 years old

An English actor with a prolific career in television and film. Gained prominence through roles in several well-known series. Achieved recognition for portraying Onslow in 'Keeping Up Appearances' and Twiggy in 'The Royle Family'. Contributed to the entertainment industry for decades and built a legacy through various performances across different genres.

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Tony Martin

Historian and academic focusing on African studies
Born
February 21st, 1942 83 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2012 12 years ago — 70 years old

Born in Trinidad and Tobago and later based in the United States, significant contributions to African studies and Caribbean history were made. Held academic positions at various institutions and authored numerous works. A prominent figure in promoting awareness of African history and culture. Advocated for the inclusion of African and Caribbean perspectives in education. Developed a notable curriculum emphasizing the importance of these histories.

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Chris Marker

French filmmaker and multimedia artist
Born
July 29th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
July 29th, 2012 12 years ago — 91 years old

Chris Marker was a French filmmaker, photographer, and multimedia artist, whose exploration of memory and time is evident in his work. Marker gained recognition for the 1962 short film 'La Jetée,' a pioneering work in the genre of science fiction that utilized still photographs to tell a story. His filmography includes other notable works such as 'Sans Soleil' and 'The Case of the Grinning Cat,' where he combined documentary, personal reflection, and visual experimentation. A significant contributor to the development of video art, Marker also engaged with new media and technology throughout his career.

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