What Happened This Year 2013

People Who Died in 2013

Richard Coughlan

English drummer for Caravan
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2013 11 years ago — 66 years old

Played drums for the progressive rock band Caravan, contributing to their distinctive sound in the 1970s. Participated in notable albums such as 'In the Land of Grey and Pink' and 'For Girls Who Grow Plump in the Night'. Engaged in performance tours across Europe, showcasing the band's music to a wide audience. Coughlan's style and technique influenced drumming within the genre, leaving a lasting legacy.

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Junior Murvin

Jamaican reggae singer-songwriter
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2013 11 years ago — 67 years old

A reggae singer-songwriter emerged in the 1970s. Gained recognition with the release of the hit song 'Police and Thieves' in 1976. This track became an anthem in the reggae genre, later covered by various artists, including The Clash. Worked with producer Lee 'Scratch' Perry, contributing to the distinct sound of this era. Released multiple albums throughout the career, with a notable style that incorporated elements of soul and rock.

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Marcelo Déda

Brazilian politician and attorney
Born
1960 65 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2013 11 years ago — 53 years old

Served as the Governor of Sergipe from 2007 to 2013. Worked as a lawyer prior to entering politics, gaining recognition for contributions to public policy. Was a member of the Workers' Party and participated actively in local and national politics. Also held position as mayor of Aracaju, the state capital of Sergipe, during the late 1990s.

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William Allain

American lawyer and politician, Governor
Born
February 14th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2013 11 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the 58th Governor of Mississippi from 1984 to 1988. Before the governorship, held various political positions, including serving in the Mississippi House of Representatives and as a state senator. Advocated for education reforms and economic development initiatives during the tenure as governor. After leaving office, contributed to state political and legal affairs.

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Jean-Claude Beton

Engineer and founder of Orangina
Born
January 14th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2013 11 years ago — 88 years old

An Algerian-French engineer and businessman established a successful soft drink company. Founded Orangina in the early 1930s, which became a popular citrus-flavored beverage recognized internationally. The unique bottle shape and marketing strategies contributed to its success. Oversaw the growth of the brand and navigated the business through various challenges in the beverage market until it was ultimately sold to larger companies.

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Ahmed Fouad Negm

Egyptian poet and political commentator
Born
May 22nd, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 2013 11 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Egypt, a prominent poet emerged, celebrated for capturing the social and political issues of the region through poetry. Works reflected the struggles of common people, often featuring critiques of political figures and social injustices. Over a prolific career, garnered significant attention for blending colloquial language with literary expression, appealing to a wide audience. Contributed to various literary movements and was an influential voice during periods of political turmoil. His poetry not only entertained but also sparked discussions about national identity and freedom.

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Paul Aussaresses

French General and military strategist
Born
November 7th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 2013 11 years ago — 95 years old

Aussaresses served in the French Army and is recognized for his role during the Algerian War. He advocated for controversial counterinsurgency tactics. His experiences during the war influenced military strategies in subsequent conflicts. Aussaresses authored several books on military strategy, including 'The Battle of the Casbah', where he detailed operations in urban warfare. His insights into the use of psychological and aggressive tactics shaped discussions on military ethics and conduct.

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Joana Raspall i Juanola

Spanish author and poet
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
December 4th, 2013 11 years ago — 100 years old

An author and poet from Spain, contributed significantly to Catalan literature. Published numerous works aimed at children and adults, emphasizing themes of nature, childhood, and identity. Raspall's poetry often celebrated the Catalan language and culture, leaving a lasting legacy in regional literature. Active in promoting the use of Catalan during a time of political and cultural repression, Raspall became a prominent figure in the literary community. Received various accolades for contributions to literature.

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Nelson Mandela

South African lawyer, 1st President
Born
July 18th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2013 11 years ago — 95 years old

A lawyer and politician, served as the first President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. Played a key role in ending apartheid through negotiation and reconciliation. Imprisoned for 27 years, became a symbol of resistance against racial oppression. His presidency focused on dismantling the legacy of apartheid and fostering racial harmony. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 alongside F.W. de Klerk for efforts in peacefully ending apartheid.

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