What Happened This Year 2013

People Who Died in 2013

Stéphane Hessel

Diplomat and author of 'Indignez-vous!'
Born
October 20th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 95 years old

A diplomat and author, played a significant role in French politics and literature. Contributed to the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. Authored 'Indignez-vous!', a bestseller advocating for social justice and political engagement at a global level. Engaged in various social and political movements throughout the latter half of the 20th century, influencing debates on human rights and democracy.

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Marie-Claire Alain

Organist and educator, notable for recordings
Born
August 10th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent organist and educator, contributed significantly to the field of organ music. Taught at the Conservatoire de Paris and published several educational works. Made numerous recordings, showcasing both classical pieces and contemporary works. Participated in international competitions as a juror and awarded multiple accolades for excellence in musicianship.

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Ramon Dekkers

Kickboxing champion and martial artist
Born
September 4th, 1969 55 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 43 years old

A prominent figure in the sport of kickboxing, built a reputation through numerous victories and championships. Competed in the 1990s and early 2000s, achieving success in various weight classes. Secured several titles, including the WAKO Pro World Lightweight Championship and WKA World Champion. His aggressive fighting style and sportsmanship earned respect within the martial arts community. Continued to influence kickboxing even after retirement, contributing to the sport's growth and popularity in the Netherlands.

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Dale Robertson

American actor in TV westerns
Born
July 14th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old

An American actor gained prominence for roles in television westerns. Featured in the series 'Tales of Wells Fargo' as Jim Hardie, which ran from 1957 to 1962. Also starred in 'The Iron Horse' portraying a railroad engineer. Acted in several films, including 'North to Alaska' alongside John Wayne. Career spanned over five decades, contributing to the western genre.

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Van Cliburn

Pianist and Van Cliburn International Piano Competition
Born
July 12th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 78 years old

An American pianist gained international acclaim by winning the first International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow in 1958 during the Cold War, symbolizing a cultural exchange between the United States and the Soviet Union. After this achievement, Cliburn's career flourished, leading to sold-out concerts worldwide. He became a prominent figure in classical music, known for his performances of Tchaikovsky's Piano Concerto No. 1 and Rachmaninoff's works. Later established the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, which has continued to attract talented pianists. Cliburn received multiple accolades throughout his career, including Grammy Awards and the Kennedy Center Honor.

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Adolfo Zaldívar

Chilean lawyer and politician
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 70 years old

Served as a prominent figure in Chilean politics, having held the role of senator from 2002 to 2010. Contributed to legislative reforms and was a member of the Christian Democratic Party, participating actively in political discourse during a transformative period in Chile's history. His tenure included engagement in various social issues and opposition to certain government policies. Ran for the presidency of Chile in 2005, emphasizing democratization and social justice. His legal background informed his approach to governance and political leadership.

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Donald A. Glaser

Physicist and Nobel Prize winner
Born
September 21st, 1926 98 years ago
Died
February 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 86 years old

Contributions to the field of physics are significant, particularly in the development of the bubble chamber. This invention changed the way subatomic particles were observed and studied. Glaser received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1960 for this work, which advanced experimental techniques in particle physics. Later, he explored biophysics and neurosciences, further diversifying his research pursuits. His academic career included a position at the University of California, Berkeley, where he influenced numerous students and researchers.

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Bonnie Franklin

American actress known for One Day at a Time
Born
January 6th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
March 1st, 2013 12 years ago — 69 years old

An actress and singer, this individual gained prominence through a leading role in the television series One Day at a Time, which aired from 1975 to 1984. The character portrayed represented a single mother navigating life with her two daughters, contributing to discussions surrounding familial and societal issues. In addition to television work, major appearances included roles in theater productions and guest appearances in several television shows. With a career spanning several decades, this person also received recognition for stage performances, particularly in the musical Brighton Beach Memoirs.

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Shabnam Shakeel

Pakistani poet and author
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in Urdu poetry, contributions to literature included numerous volumes of poetry and influential writing that captured the essence of contemporary life in Pakistan. Engaged in various literary movements, her work reflected the social and cultural dynamics of her time. Shakeel's poetry resonated with readers, addressing themes of love, loss, and identity. She also wrote essays and articles that enriched the Urdu literary landscape.

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