What Happened This Year 2015

People Who Died in 2015

Chris Woodhead

English civil servant and academic
Born
October 20th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 69 years old

An English civil servant and academic held leadership positions in educational organizations. Served as Chief Inspector of Schools in England from 1994 to 2000, overseeing the inspection of schools across the country. Played a significant role in shaping educational policy and standards during tenure. Authored several works focused on education and inspection methodologies, influencing practices in the field. Established a reputation for promoting accountability in schools and advocating for improvements in teaching quality.

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John Horlock

Engineer and academic in thermodynamics
Born
April 19th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 87 years old

Contributed to the field of thermodynamics, focusing on energy systems. Conducted research that advanced understanding of steam and gas turbines. Held academic positions, influencing engineering education through teaching and publications. Authored textbooks that are integral to engineering curricula, particularly in thermodynamic principles and applications. Engaged in professional societies, contributing to discussions around engineering practices and technologies.

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Licio Gelli

Italian financer of Propaganda Due
Born
April 21st, 1919 107 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 96 years old

A financier associated with a clandestine Masonic lodge, heavily involved in Italian conspiracy and political maneuvering during the Cold War. Established the Propaganda Due (P2) lodge, which gained notoriety for its connections to various political figures, financial institutions, and illegal activities. The activities and influence of P2 were pivotal during a tumultuous period in Italian history, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s. Gelli's role in the lodge included orchestrating efforts that tied together interests across politics, business, and organized crime, causing significant political scandals and controversies in Italy.

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Marah Halim Harahap

Indonesian military officer, Governor
Born
February 28th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 94 years old

Served as a military officer during the Indonesian National Revolution. Held the position of Governor of North Sumatra, contributing to regional governance and development. Participated in various military operations and played a significant role in the country’s quest for independence.

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Diego Barisone

Argentinian footballer and defender
Born
May 29th, 1989 37 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 26 years old

Born in Argentina, played as a professional footballer, primarily as a central defender. Initiated a career in youth teams before progressing to senior football. Represented Club Atlético Lanús and later played for Unión de Santa Fe in Argentina's Primera División. Known for strong defensive skills and contributions to team stability. His career faced a tragic conclusion at the age of 26 due to a fatal accident.

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Muath Al-Kasasbeh

Jordanian pilot and military officer
Born
May 29th, 1988 38 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 27 years old

Born in 1988, served as a pilot in the Royal Jordanian Air Force. Voiced commitment to military duty and national defense. Captured by ISIS in December 2014 during an anti-ISIS mission over Syria. Tragically killed in early 2015, prompting international outrage and condemnation. His sacrifice intensified discussions on global counter-terrorism efforts and highlighted the perilous conditions faced by servicemen.

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Robert Craft

Conductor and musicologist with Stravinsky
Born
October 20th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 92 years old

Associated with 20th-century classical music, this conductor and musicologist made significant contributions to the performance and interpretation of Igor Stravinsky's works. Collaborated closely with Stravinsky, conducting premiere performances and providing insights into the composer's music and techniques. Held various positions with prestigious orchestras and institutions, and engaged in teaching and lecturing on musicology. Authored books that explored the details of Stravinsky's life and his creative processes.

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Richard Clark Barkley

American diplomat and ambassador to East Germany
Born
December 23rd, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 83 years old

A military officer and academic with a focus on international relations and diplomatic service. Served as United States Ambassador to East Germany from 1981 to 1983 during a pivotal period in Cold War history. Worked on initiatives to improve U.S. relations with East Germany and participated in negotiations regarding arms control and environmental issues. His extensive career in the State Department included significant roles in various capacities related to European affairs.

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Rajinder Puri

Indian cartoonist and journalist
Born
September 20th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent cartoonist and journalist, contributed to Indian media with a focus on political satire and social commentary. Worked with several publications, including 'The Hindustan Times' and 'The Indian Express'. Active in political activism, utilized cartoons as a medium to critique government policies and societal issues. His work resonated with many during various political events in India.

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