What Happened This Year 2012

People Who Died in 2012

Malcolm Browne

Journalist and photographer for Vietnam War
Born
April 17th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 81 years old

Contributed significantly to journalism during the Vietnam War. Served as a war correspondent for the Associated Press, capturing critical moments that defined public perceptions of the conflict. Famous for the Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph of a Buddhist monk's self-immolation in 1963, this image highlighted the harsh realities and moral complexities of the war. Later worked for The New York Times, continuing to report on major global events.

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Neville Alexander

Linguist and language activist
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 76 years old

Contributions included work on the development of language policies and the promotion of mother-tongue education in South Africa. Focused on the preservation and promotion of indigenous languages. Engaged in activism that addressed the linguistic rights of marginalized communities. Authored several books and articles on language, education, and politics. Served as the director of the Project for the Study of Alternative Education in South Africa.

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Rhodes Boyson

English educator and politician
Born
1925 101 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2012 13 years ago — 87 years old

An educator and politician, contributed significantly to English education policy and the Conservative Party. Served as a Member of Parliament for Brent North from 1979 to 1987. Advocated for educational reforms and was an outspoken supporter of traditional teaching methods. Held the position of education spokesman for the Conservative Party during his parliamentary tenure.

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Shulamith Firestone

Feminist author and activist
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2012 13 years ago — 67 years old

An influential figure in the feminist movement, produced significant theoretical works focusing on women's liberation. Published major text titled 'The Dialectic of Sex' in 1970, which critiqued patriarchy and proposed revolutionary changes to gender roles. Engaged in organizing efforts within feminist groups and was a founding member of the feminist group the New York Radical Women. Advocated for issues related to women's rights and reproductive freedom throughout her career.

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Saul Merin

Ophthalmologist and academic leader
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2012 13 years ago — 79 years old

Merin served as a prominent ophthalmologist and academic, contributing significantly to the field of eye care. His career was characterized by a commitment to medical education and advancement in ophthalmic practices. Holding prestigious positions in various medical institutions, he conducted extensive research and published numerous studies that helped shape modern ophthalmology. Merin's work in clinical practice and education left a notable legacy in the medical community.

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Nicholas Goodrick-Clarke

Historian specializing in occult studies
Born
1953 73 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2012 13 years ago — 59 years old

A historian and author focused on Western esotericism and occultism. Published several key works exploring the relationship between these topics and politics. Made significant contributions to the study of the occult in modern history. His works often examined the influence of esoteric movements on societal changes and political ideologies.

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Shoshichi Kobayashi

Mathematician renowned for hyperbolic geometry
Born
1932 94 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2012 13 years ago — 80 years old

A mathematician and academic specialized in differential geometry and geometric topology. Pioneered research on several topics including hyperbolic geometry and complex manifolds. Contributed significantly to the field through various publications and lectures, influencing both mathematics and its applications. Served as a professor at multiple institutions and played a key role in promoting mathematics education.

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Ruth Goldbloom

Canadian philanthropist and academic leader
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2012 13 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent Canadian academic and philanthropist, contributed significantly to the development of cultural and educational organizations. Co-founded Pier 21, a national historic site in Halifax, celebrating Canada's immigration story. Played a vital role in advancing education and community engagement through various initiatives and organizations. Advocated for the importance of preserving Canadian heritage.

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Anne McKnight

American soprano active in opera
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2012 13 years ago — 88 years old

Active in the operatic scene, contributed significantly to the art form with performances in prominent roles. Performed at prestigious venues including the Metropolitan Opera. Recognized for interpretations of Mozart and Puccini operas, showcasing vocal prowess and artistry. Also engaged in concert performances, receiving acclaim for both solo and ensemble work.

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