What Happened This Year 2012

People Who Died in 2012

Richard Cragun

Ballet dancer and choreographer
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2012 13 years ago — 68 years old

An American-Brazilian ballet dancer and choreographer, gained prominence as a principal dancer with the Stuttgart Ballet. Collaborated with notable choreographers and featured in productions of renowned ballets like 'Swan Lake' and 'Romeo and Juliet'. Contributed significantly to the artistic development of the ballet scene in Brazil after relocating there. Cragun also taught and mentored emerging dancers, influencing the next generation of performers.

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Ruggiero Ricci

American violinist and educator
Born
July 24th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2012 13 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent violinist and educator, made significant contributions to classical music. Gained recognition for the performances of both mainstream and lesser-known violin repertoire. Played a vital role in promoting the works of contemporary composers. Served as a professor at various institutions, imparting knowledge and passion for the violin to future generations. His skillful interpretations earned him acclaim worldwide.

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Dan Roundfield

American basketball player and All-Star
Born
1953 72 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2012 13 years ago — 59 years old

Played professional basketball in the NBA from 1975 to 1986. Spent the majority of his career with the Atlanta Hawks. Also played for the Indiana Pacers and the Detroit Pistons. Recognized for defensive skills and rebounding ability. Selected as an NBA All-Star in 1980. Participated in playoff appearances and contributed to team success during the late 1970s and early 1980s.

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Bernard Lovell

Physicist and astronomer, Jodrell Bank
Born
August 31st, 1913 111 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2012 13 years ago — 98 years old

A leading figure in radio astronomy, contributed to the establishment of the Jodrell Bank Observatory in England. Played a significant role in the development of radio telescopes and observational techniques. Conducted pioneering research on cosmic rays and the structure of the Milky Way. Actively participated in pivotal science projects, including the tracking of spacecraft during the early years of the space age.

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Marvin Hamlisch

American composer and conductor of 'A Chorus Line'
Born
June 2nd, 1944 81 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2012 13 years ago — 68 years old

An American composer and conductor was involved in various aspects of music, including film scores, Broadway musicals, and symphonic compositions. Achieved success through a range of genres, contributing significantly to the arts. Won three Academy Awards for music contributions, notably for 'The Way We Were' and 'The Sting'. Other notable accolades include Grammy Awards and a Tony Award for 'A Chorus Line', which also won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

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Anna Piaggi

Italian journalist and fashion writer
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2012 13 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent fashion journalist and author, contributed significantly to the fashion industry through insightful commentary and unique style. Served as an editor for Italian Vogue, where she influenced the publication's direction and aesthetic. Authored several books on fashion and style that reflected personal perspectives and historical contexts. Noted for her eccentric fashion sense, which became a subject of interest and admiration in the fashion community.

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Murtuz Alasgarov

Azerbaijani politician and academic leader
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2012 13 years ago — 84 years old

Held the position of Speaker of the National Assembly of Azerbaijan. Completed a distinguished career in academia alongside political roles, contributing to legislative processes and governance in the country. Played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of Azerbaijan during a transformative period in its history. Engaged in various educational initiatives and reforms aimed at improving the academic system and fostering intellectual development within the nation.

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Dušan Zbavitel

Czech indologist and author
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2012 13 years ago — 87 years old

Specialized in Indian philosophy and linguistics. Contributed to the field of indology through research and teaching. Authored several scholarly works, focusing on the development of Indian languages and culture. Advanced understanding of Sanskrit and its historical context. Held academic positions at various institutions, influencing students and researchers in the field.

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Fay Ajzenberg-Selove

Nuclear Physicist with key research
Born
February 13th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old

An American nuclear physicist contributed significantly to the field of nuclear physics, particularly in the study of nuclear reactions. Secured a faculty position at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, specializing in experimental nuclear physics. Published several influential papers that advanced understanding of nuclear structures and reactions. A strong advocate for women in science, promoting their participation in the field throughout her career.

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