What Happened This Year 2014

People Who Died in 2014

David Easton

Political Scientist and Academic
Born
June 24th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
July 19th, 2014 10 years ago — 97 years old

A Canadian-American political scientist and academic, contributions focused on systems theory in political science. Developed the systems approach which emphasized the relationships between political institutions and their environments. Published significant works, including 'A Systems Analysis of Political Life,' which framed political science as a scientific discipline. Served as president of the American Political Science Association and held professorships at several universities, influencing generations of scholars in the field.

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James Garner

American actor and producer in film and TV
Born
April 7th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 19th, 2014 10 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent actor and producer, celebrated for significant roles in television and film. Starred in the iconic television series 'Maverick' and 'The Rockford Files'. Garner also had a successful film career, featuring in movies such as 'The Great Escape' and 'Murphy's Romance'. Garner earned multiple awards during his career, including two Primetime Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe Award.

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Victor G. Atiyeh

American politician and Governor of Oregon
Born
February 20th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2014 10 years ago — 91 years old

Served as the 32nd governor of Oregon from 1979 to 1987. Focused on economic development and job creation during time in office. Prior to governorship, held positions in the Oregon State Senate, including Senate Minority Leader. Instrumental in implementing budget reforms and improving state infrastructure.

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Klaus Schmidt

German archaeologist and academic
Born
1953 72 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2014 10 years ago — 61 years old

Significant contributions were made to the field of archaeology, particularly through the work at Göbekli Tepe, an ancient archaeological site in Turkey. Schmidt led excavations that uncovered monumental structures dating back to the Pre-Pottery Neolithic period, showcasing early religious and communal activities. His research provided insights into the transition from hunter-gatherer societies to settled farming, emphasizing the importance of Göbekli Tepe in understanding early human civilization.

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Dan Borislow

Businessman and telecommunications inventor
Born
September 21st, 1961 63 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2014 10 years ago — 52 years old

Born in the United States, this businessman and inventor founded MagicJack, a device that enables voice over IP communication. Launched in 2007, MagicJack gained significant popularity for its cost-effective alternative to traditional phone services. The device allowed users to make unlimited calls to the U.S. and Canada from any internet-connected location. With a strong background in telecommunications, various ventures were undertaken in technology services before achieving notable success with MagicJack. The invention contributed to changes in how consumers approached communication and phone service options.

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Lettice Curtis

Engineer and pilot, Air Transport Auxiliary
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2014 10 years ago — 99 years old

An English engineer and pilot, contributions included work as a test pilot and a member of the Air Transport Auxiliary during World War II. In this role, delivered aircraft from factories to Royal Air Force stations. Became one of the first female pilots in the United Kingdom to qualify for a commercial pilot's license. After the war, continued to promote aviation and women's participation in the field through various initiatives and organizations.

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Louise Abeita

Native American writer and educator
Born
September 9th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2014 10 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Isleta Pueblo, a Native American community, a prominent writer, poet, and educator focused on Native American issues and culture. Contributions to literature include the poetry collection 'The Moon in the Water', which reflects Indigenous themes and experiences. Held teaching positions influencing young Indigenous writers and advocated for preserving Native languages and culture through education.

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Kevin Skinner

Rugby player, All Blacks representative
Born
November 24th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2014 10 years ago — 86 years old

Played rugby union, primarily as a winger, during the mid-20th century. Represented the All Blacks, New Zealand's national rugby team, and participated in the 1953-54 tour of the British Isles. Contributed to the team's success in various international matches.

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Johann Breyer

German SS officer during WWII
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 2014 10 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a member of the SS during World War II. Was involved in operations concerning the deportation of Jews to concentration camps. After the war, faced allegations of war crimes but migrated to the United States. Lived a long life in America before his death in 2014.

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