What Happened This Year 2013

People Who Died in 2013

John Hollander

Poet and literary critic with notable works
Born
October 28th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 11 years ago — 83 years old

An American poet, critic, and educator contributed significantly to contemporary poetry and literary criticism. Published numerous collections of poetry including 'Fable' and 'The Picture Window'. Served as a professor at several esteemed institutions, including Yale University and the University of Pennsylvania. Contributed articles and essays to major literary journals and was influential in shaping modern poetry's landscape through both creative work and critical analysis.

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Gus Winckel

Dutch lieutenant and pilot
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 11 years ago — 101 years old

Served as a lieutenant in the Royal Netherlands Air Force and demonstrated notable aerial skills during his military career. Played a key role in the Dutch air operations post-World War II, contributing to the establishment of air defense strategies. Engaged in various missions that highlighted the importance of aerial reconnaissance and tactical aerial support for military operations. His career spanned several decades, transitioning from military service to civil aviation roles.

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Odilia Dank

American educator and politician
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 11 years ago — 75 years old

An educator and politician served in the New Mexico House of Representatives. Contributed to various educational initiatives and reforms. Advocated for improved educational policies and support for teachers and students. Participated in community outreach and local governance.

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Albert Murray

American author and literary critic
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2013 11 years ago — 97 years old

Contributed significantly to American literature through a focus on African American culture and identity. Developed a critical perspective that highlighted the connections between jazz and literary forms. Authored several influential works including 'The Omni-Americans' and 'South to a Very Old Place'. Worked as a critic and essayist, engaging with popular culture and literature through a reflective lens.

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Jean Kahn

French lawyer and civil rights activist
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2013 11 years ago — 84 years old

Played a significant role in advocating for civil rights in France and worked with various organizations to promote social justice. Contributed to the legal framework regarding individual liberties and public policies. Engaged in numerous campaigns focused on minority rights, anti-racism, and civil liberties throughout a lengthy career in law. Held leadership positions in several human rights organizations and served on advisory panels concerning human rights issues.

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Donna Hightower

American singer-songwriter with hit songs
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2013 11 years ago — 87 years old

A notable American singer-songwriter, contributed significantly to the music scene with a career that spanned several decades. Achieved recognition in the 1960s and 1970s for soulful interpretations and original compositions. Gained fame with a variety of singles, including a notable version of 'This World Today Is a Mess.' Additionally, worked with various artists and recorded numerous albums, showcasing a rich vocal style that blended pop and soul influences.

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Elmore Leonard

Novelist and screenwriter of crime thrillers
Born
October 11th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 11 years ago — 87 years old

An American writer whose career spanned over six decades, produced numerous acclaimed novels and screenplays. A master of dialogue and character development, crafted stories that often centered around crime, suspense, and the complexities of human relationships. Authored works that were adapted into popular films and television series. Notable novels include "Get Shorty," "Rum Punch," and "Out of Sight," many of which received screen adaptations that garnered attention. Developed a unique style that blended elements of westerns, crime fiction, and mainstream literature.

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John W. Morris

American general, World War II veteran
Born
September 10th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 11 years ago — 91 years old

A general in the United States Army, distinguished military career included service in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Played significant roles in various military operations and leadership positions. Achieved the rank of brigadier general, showcasing extensive experience and dedication to military service. Contributed to strategic planning and execution of operations during critical periods of conflict.

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Narendra Dabholkar

Indian author and rationalist activist
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 11 years ago — 68 years old

An Indian author and activist focused on rationalism and social reform. Founded the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti, an organization combating superstition and promoting scientific thinking. Wrote extensively on the topics of atheism and rationalism. Authored several books addressing superstition, including 'The Myth of God' and 'Crisis of Faith'. Recognized for vigorous advocacy against black magic and fraudulent practices, leading campaigns to educate the public on rational thought and skepticism.

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