What Happened This Year 2014

People Who Died in 2014

Joe McGinniss

Journalist and author of 'Fatal Vision'
Born
December 9th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent journalist and author, worked on investigative journalism and non-fiction narratives. Gained recognition for the book 'Fatal Vision', which detailed the murder case of Jeffrey MacDonald. Contributed to publications such as The New York Times and The Washington Post, while covering major political events and social issues. Examined the life of Richard Nixon in the book 'The Selling of the President 1968'. Sought to blend literary techniques with journalistic rigor, influencing the genre of narrative journalism.

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David Chavchavadze

CIA officer and author of Cold War works
Born
May 20th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 90 years old

An English-American CIA officer and author, had a career that spanned several decades, primarily during the Cold War. Chavchavadze served in various positions within the CIA, where focus included intelligence gathering and analysis. After retiring from government service, ventured into writing, producing works that documented espionage and intelligence operations. Authored several books, including discussions on the nature of the CIA and the Cold War's dynamics, as well as fiction inspired by personal experiences.

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James Freeman Gilbert

Geophysicist and academic in seismology
Born
August 9th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed to the field of geophysics with a focus on seismology and tectonics. Served as a professor and was deeply involved in academic research. Published numerous papers on seismic waves and earthquake modeling. Played a vital role in advancing the understanding of the Earth's structure and seismic activity.

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Franz-Paul Decker

Conductor and orchestral leader
Born
June 26th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent conductor, played a key role in the music scene in Germany and internationally. Conducted various prestigious orchestras and festivals, showcasing a wide repertoire that included classical and contemporary works. Served as chief conductor for several orchestras, such as the NDR Symphony Orchestra and the Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie Bremen. Contributed to the lineage of conducting with a strong emphasis on artistic integrity and musical expression.

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Alice Coachman

American high jumper Olympic medalist
Born
November 9th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 91 years old

Pioneered women's track and field in the 20th century. Achieved prominence as a high jumper, winning a gold medal at the 1948 London Olympics, becoming the first African American woman to win an Olympic gold medal. Set numerous records throughout her career, including becoming the first female athlete to clear 5 feet. Active in promoting sports for women after retirement, serving as a mentor and coach.

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Carla Laemmle

Actress in 'Phantom of the Opera'
Born
October 20th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 105 years old

An American actress and photographer, this person began a film career in the silent film era. Notable for a role in 'Phantom of the Opera' (1925), she contributed significantly to early cinema. Also worked as a photographer, capturing moments during various film productions. Continued to engage with the film community throughout life by participating in film festivals and events.

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Martin Špegelj

Croatian General and Minister of Defence
Born
November 11th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 87 years old

A military officer and politician, served as the second Minister of Defence of Croatia following the country's independence in the 1990s. Played a significant role in the Croatian War of Independence, overseeing military operations and contributing to the establishment of the Croatian Armed Forces. Engaged in various defense and security initiatives during a critical period in Croatian history.

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Jimi Jamison

Rock singer-songwriter and musician
Born
August 23rd, 1951 73 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent rock singer-songwriter and musician, gained acclaim as the lead vocalist of the band Survivor. Contributed to the band’s success with the iconic song 'Eye of the Tiger', which served as the theme song for the movie 'Rocky III'. Released solo albums that showcased a distinctive style and versatility in the rock genre. Collaborated with various artists and participated in multiple tours, solidifying a legacy in music.

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Akkineni Nageswara Rao

Indian actor and film producer
Born
September 20th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 91 years old

An influential figure in Telugu cinema, contributions spanned several decades, beginning in the 1940s. Starred in numerous iconic films, including 'Devadasu' and 'Malliswari'. Established a successful production company, focusing on high-quality regional cinema. Played a significant role in the development of the film industry in Andhra Pradesh, promoting artistic innovation. Received several awards throughout the career, including the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for lifetime achievement in Indian cinema.

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