What Happened This Year 2013
People Who Died in 2013
George Gruntz
A renowned pianist and composer, contributed significantly to contemporary jazz music. Founded the George Gruntz Concert Jazz Band, which gained recognition for its innovative style and performances. Collaborated with notable musicians and ensembles, helping to merge classical elements with jazz. Served as a professor at the Hochschule für Musik und Theater in Bern, influencing many aspiring musicians through teaching.
Continue ReadingClaude Nobs
A Swiss businessman established the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1967, transforming it into one of the most prestigious music festivals in the world. The festival attracted a wide array of music genres and featured prominent artists from various backgrounds. The event became a cultural landmark, showcasing jazz as well as rock and pop music. Nobs managed the festival for decades, ensuring its growth and maintaining its international reputation. His contributions to the music scene significantly influenced the festival circuit, promoting musical collaboration and innovation.
Continue ReadingGuido Forti
An Italian businessman established the Forti Racing Team, which competed in various motorsport events. The team participated in the Formula 3000 Championship, where it achieved a notable presence. Forti Racing not only contributed to the motorsport scene in Italy but also provided a platform for young drivers to advance their careers. The team aimed to develop talent in a highly competitive environment.
Continue ReadingTom Parry Jones
A chemist from Wales, contributed significantly to analytical chemistry through the invention of the breathalyzer, a device used to measure blood alcohol content from breath samples. The breathalyzer has had a profound effect on law enforcement and public safety practices. This invention has influenced legislation and practices regarding drinking and driving, leading to extensive use across various countries. The official breathalyzer device has undergone numerous advancements since its initial creation, but the foundational concept originated with the contributions made by this chemist.
Continue ReadingNguyễn Khánh
A military officer and politician, served as the 3rd President of South Vietnam from 1964 to 1965. Commanded the Army of the Republic of Vietnam during pivotal moments of the Vietnam War. Held leadership roles in various military coups aimed at the ousting of political leaders deemed ineffective. After leaving political office, lived in exile until returning to Vietnam in the later years.
Continue ReadingMariangela Melato
Melato was a prominent Italian actress recognized for her extensive work in theater, film, and television. She gained significant acclaim for her performance in the 1974 film 'La classe operaia va in paradiso.' Melato also had a formidable presence on stage, where she performed in various productions, including works by renowned playwrights. In addition to film and theater, she appeared in popular television series, becoming a familiar face in Italian households. Throughout her career, she received several awards, including the prestigious David di Donatello for Best Supporting Actress.
Continue ReadingAaron Swartz
A prominent figure in the tech community, contributed to the development of the RSS web feed format and co-founded Reddit. Advocated for open access to information and legal reform for the internet. Involved in the movement against the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and worked on initiatives to make data freely available. Faced legal challenges related to the downloading of academic journal articles, which led to public discourse on internet freedoms and the ethics of information access. Died in 2013.
Continue ReadingFlor María Chalbaud
Served as First Lady of Venezuela from 1974 to 1979. Played a significant role in social programs focusing on education and health during her husband's presidency. Engaged in cultural initiatives and was an advocate for women's rights. Involved in various charitable organizations dedicated to improving living conditions in Venezuela.
Continue ReadingEugene Patterson
A prominent journalist and editor, played a vital role in covering civil rights issues during the 1960s. Served as editor of the Atlanta Constitution and advocated for social justice and equality. Reported extensively on the Civil Rights Movement, providing a platform for activists and highlighting injustices faced by African Americans. After retiring, contributed to various publications and continued to address contemporary social issues.
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