What Happened This Year 2012

People Who Died in 2012

Gore Vidal

American novelist and screenwriter
Born
October 3rd, 1925 99 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2012 12 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent American writer, contributed significantly to literature and political discourse through novels, essays, and screenplays. Wrote critically acclaimed works such as 'Burr' and 'Myra Breckenridge', engaging with themes of politics, sexuality, and culture. Vidal also wrote for television and film, creating sharp commentaries on American society. His essays reflected a keen intellect and controversial opinions on various issues. Engaged in public debates and served in various political capacities, influencing both literature and public thought.

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Tony Sly

American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
November 4th, 1970 54 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2012 12 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent figure in the punk rock scene, Sly was a key member of the band NOFX. He gained recognition for his songwriting and melodic style, contributing to the band's distinctive sound. Sly released solo albums, showcasing his acoustic and lyrical talents. His work resonated with fans, solidifying his status in the music community. In addition to performing, Sly participated in various collaborations, further expanding his reach in the genre.

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Aldo Maldera

Italian footballer and agent
Born
1953 72 years ago
Died
August 1st, 2012 12 years ago — 59 years old

Played as a defender primarily for A.C. Milan and later for U.S. Alessandria. Spent 11 seasons with A.C. Milan, winning multiple Serie A titles and the Coppa Italia. Transitioned to a football agent after retiring from professional play, representing various players and contributing to the sport off the field.

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Marguerite Piazza

American soprano and opera singer
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 2012 12 years ago — 92 years old

An American soprano specialized in opera and concert performances. Performed lead roles in productions such as 'Madama Butterfly', 'La Traviata', and 'Carmen'. Gained acclaim for contributions to the arts and music education, particularly in promoting opera. Served as a prominent artist for major American opera companies and symphonies throughout her career. Participated in various philanthropic efforts to support the arts.

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Bernd Meier

German footballer with Bundesliga experience
Born
1972 53 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 2012 12 years ago — 40 years old

Played as a midfielder primarily in the 1970s and 1980s. Made significant contributions to several clubs in Germany, particularly with 1. FC Köln and MSV Duisburg. Achieved promotion to the Bundesliga with MSV Duisburg and played in multiple seasons of top-flight football. Represented the West Germany national team at youth level. Retired from professional football in the early 1990s.

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Jimmy Jones

Basketball player and coach for teams
Born
January 1st, 1945 80 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 2012 12 years ago — 67 years old

A professional basketball player emerged in the 1960s. Played for the Washington Bullets in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and had a successful career that included multiple seasons in the league. Transitioned into coaching after retiring from playing, contributing to the development of future players.

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John Keegan

Historian and journalist; The Face of Battle
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 2012 12 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent historian and journalist, contributed significantly to military history. Authored several influential books, including 'The Face of Battle', which offered a new perspective on the experience of combat. Worked as a military journalist for major publications, analyzing contemporary conflicts alongside historical narratives. Served as a lecturer in military history at the University of Kingston.

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Martin Fleischmann

Chemist known for cold fusion experiments
Born
March 29th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 2012 12 years ago — 85 years old

A British chemist contributed significantly to the field of electrochemistry and nuclear reactions. Conducted controversial cold fusion experiments in the late 1980s that claimed to achieve nuclear fusion at room temperature. The results sparked widespread interest and debate within the scientific community, leading to further investigation into low-energy nuclear reactions. Worked on techniques involving surface chemistry and developed an early electrochemical cell for measuring ionic concentrations.

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Frank Evans

Baseball player and manager for several teams
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 2012 12 years ago — 91 years old

Played as a baseball player and later transitioned into coaching and management. Managed teams in the minor leagues and contributed to player development. Worked with various organizations over several decades in the sport. Served as a mentor to many emerging talents in baseball.

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