What Happened This Year 2014
People Who Died in 2014
Walter Dean Myers
An influential author and poet, recognized for contributions to young adult literature. Wrote over 100 works, including novels, picture books, and poetry. His literature often addressed themes of identity, race, and family. Authored the award-winning novel 'Monster,' which explores the life of a teenage boy on trial for murder. Served as a National Ambassador for Young People's Literature from 2012 to 2013, advocating for literacy and the importance of reading in youth.
Continue ReadingJean Garon
A Canadian economist and lawyer, held significant roles in provincial and federal politics. Elected as a Member of Parliament for the Bloc Québécois, served from 1993 to 1997. Advocated for agricultural issues and was involved in various committees during tenure. Prior to political career, practiced law and contributed to economic discussions and policy development.
Continue ReadingBob Jones
A lawyer and politician, practiced law in England. Represented the Labour Party in the House of Commons. Served as a Member of Parliament, contributing to legislative processes. Participated in various committees, focusing on legal affairs and public policy. Engaged in political discourse throughout the later part of the 20th century, influencing local and national issues.
Continue ReadingStephen Gaskin
Co-founded The Farm, a spiritual community in Summertown, Tennessee, in 1971. The community became known for its commitment to sustainable farming, vegetarianism, and communal living. Gaskin taught classes on spirituality and social issues, attracting followers who sought an alternative lifestyle. He authored several books on topics including spirituality, communal living, and social change, offering insights into his vision of a harmonious society. Gaskin's work with The Farm influenced the counterculture movement of the 1970s and inspired similar intentional communities across the United States.
Continue ReadingHarold W. Kuhn
Contributed significantly to the field of mathematics, with a focus on game theory. Developed Kuhn's theorem, which addresses non-cooperative games. Served as a professor at Princeton University for several decades, influencing many students and researchers in mathematics and economics. Authored several papers that have been widely referenced in mathematical literature. Collaborated with various scholars, contributing to the understanding of strategic interactions in competitive situations.
Continue ReadingEmilio Álvarez Montalván
An ophthalmologist who contributed to public health in Nicaragua and served as a politician advocating for health rights. Involved in various initiatives to improve healthcare access and quality, particularly in eye care. Played a significant role in shaping health policy and addressing issues related to vision and eye care in the country.
Continue ReadingLouis Zamperini
Born on January 26, 1917, a distinguished runner excelled in track and field, earning a spot in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Served as a bombardier in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. After his plane crashed in the Pacific Ocean, he survived on a life raft for over a month and endured hardships as a prisoner of war in Japan. Post-war, engaged in motivational speaking and authored an autobiography, detailing his experiences and resilience.
Continue ReadingManuel Cardona
A Spanish physicist and academic specialized in condensed matter physics. Contributed extensively to the field of solid-state physics and material science. Published over 400 papers and co-authored numerous books. Held significant roles in various international scientific organizations and was influential in promoting research and education in physics. Served as a professor at several universities and mentored many students in the academic community.
Continue ReadingZalman Schachter-Shalomi
Born in 1924 in Ukraine, a rabbi and author emerged as a significant figure in Jewish renewal and spirituality. After immigrating to the United States post-World War II, this individual co-founded the Jewish Renewal movement, which sought to revitalize Jewish practice and engage with contemporary spiritual needs. He wrote several influential books on Jewish thought and spirituality, including 'Jewish with Feeling' and 'The Eternal Quest'. His teachings emphasized integrating traditional Jewish practices with modern philosophical concepts.
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