What Happened This Year 2013

People Who Died in 2013

Godfrey Stafford

Physicist and academic in South Africa
Born
April 15th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 93 years old

Born in England, a career spanned multiple institutions in South Africa, focusing on physics and education. Contributed to the understanding of particle physics and worked extensively in academic spaces. Engaged in initiatives to promote physics education in the country, influencing the academic landscape. Published numerous papers on topics related to particle physics and played a role in mentoring future physicists. Served as a professor at several universities, shaping the curriculum and fostering a robust learning environment.

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Tom Sharpe

English-Spanish author and educator
Born
March 30th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 85 years old

An author and educator, this individual wrote satirical novels that often critiqued societal norms and institutions. The body of work includes the popular 'Wilt' series, which centers around the misadventures of Wilt Potters, an inept college lecturer. Other significant works include 'Rallying Round Richard', which further established the author's reputation in comedic literature. Involved in education, contributed to the academic landscape in Spain, influencing numerous students and writers.

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Peter Geach

Philosopher and academic.
Born
March 29th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 97 years old

Contributions to philosophy focused on topics such as logic, language, and metaphysics. Served as a professor at the University of Hull and published several influential works. Engaged with issues of identity and necessity, shaping discussions in analytic philosophy.

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Shamshad Begum

Pakistani-Indian playback singer
Born
April 14th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 94 years old

Born in 1919, a prominent playback singer in Hindi and Urdu cinema. Gained recognition in the late 1940s and 1950s for her melodious voice. Contributed to numerous films, including 'Nagina' and 'Hulaa'. Her singing style and performances resonated with audiences across India and Pakistan. Worked with notable music composers like Naushad and C. Ramchandra. Retired from playback singing in the 1960s, leaving behind a rich legacy in film music.

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Louise Currie

American actress in classic horror films
Born
April 7th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 100 years old

An actress appeared in several films from the 1940s to the 1950s, specializing in the horror genre. Roles included prominent parts in movies such as 'The Ghost of Frankenstein' and 'The Phantom of 42nd Street'. Worked extensively with Monogram Pictures and participated in numerous theatrical productions.

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Elspet Gray

Scottish actress with notable stage performances
Born
April 12th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent figure in British theater and television, this actress had a lengthy career that spanned decades. Best recognized for her work in the Royal Shakespeare Company, she excelled in classical and contemporary roles. Contributions to television included significant roles in series such as "The Forsyte Saga" and "Wives and Daughters." Additionally, performances at the Edinburgh Festivals highlighted her talents in both comedy and drama. Recognized for her dedication to the craft, she also earned accolades for her stage performances, particularly in the works of playwrights such as Shakespeare and Shaw.

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Danny Matt

German-Israeli general
Born
December 10th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1927, a general who served in the Israeli Defense Forces. Participated in significant military operations and played a vital role in shaping security policies. Contributed to strategic military planning during critical periods for Israel, particularly during the Six-Day War and Yom Kippur War.

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Deanna Durbin

Canadian actress and singer in film musicals
Born
December 4th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent actress and singer, achieved fame during the 1930s and 1940s primarily through film musicals. Rose to stardom with the role in 'Three Smart Girls'. Her work in films contributed significantly to the popularity of musical cinema. Durbin's exceptional vocal talent and charming screen presence captured the audience's attention in many successful movies. She transitioned into adult roles while continuing to showcase musical abilities, solidifying her status in Hollywood. With a thriving career that consisted of several well-received films, she became one of the highest-paid actresses of her time.

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Yevgeny Kychanov

Russian orientalist and historian
Born
June 22nd, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 81 years old

An orientalist and historian focused on Central Asia and the Middle East. Contributed to the understanding of the cultural and historical contexts of these regions through extensive research and publications. Emphasized the importance of primary sources and fieldwork in historiography. Served as a professor and mentor to many students in the academic community, fostering new generations of scholars. Was involved in several major cultural projects and academic collaborations throughout his career.

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